Gilbert
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What does the baby name Gilbert mean? Learn about what Gilbert means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Gilbert - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Gilbert
- G-I-L-B-E-R-T, is a 7-letter male given name.
- Pronunciation of Gilbert
- GIL-bərt
- GIL bert
- Meaning of Gilbert
- Illustrious pledge, bright pledge, bright young man, trusted, brilliant pledge, pledge-bright.
- Origin of Gilbert
- The name 'Gilbert' has its roots in Old Germanic languages, specifically from the elements 'gisil' meaning 'pledge' or 'hostage', and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. Combining these elements, 'Gilbert' can be interpreted as 'bright pledge' or 'famous hostage'. The earliest known use of the name 'Gilbert' dates back to medieval times, where it was a common name among the Anglo-Norman nobility.
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- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Gilbert
- Bert
- Bertie
- Burt
- Gib
- Gil
- Gilberto
- Gilibeirt
- Giselbert
- Giselberto
- Giselbertus
- Guilbert
- Popularity of Gilbert
- Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Gilbert' has experienced fluctuations. In the Middle Ages, it was a widely used name among the nobility and clergy. However, its popularity declined in the following centuries. In the 19th century, there was a notable spike in the usage of the name 'Gilbert', particularly in England and Wales. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the influence of the renowned Victorian playwright W.S. 'Gilbert', famous for his collaborations with composer Arthur Sullivan.
- Gilbert currently has 109 likes, and is in the top 4% of liked boy's names. The name Anderson is slightly more popular than Gilbert.
Etymology of Gilbert
As mentioned earlier, the name 'Gilbert' is derived from Old Germanic languages. The element 'gisil' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'gaisilaz', which means 'pledge' or 'hostage'. This indicates that the name 'Gilbert' may have been associated with the idea of a trusted companion or protector. The element 'berht' has its origins in the Proto-Germanic word 'berhtaz', which means 'bright' or 'shining'. This suggests that the name 'Gilbert' may have been bestowed upon individuals who were seen as shining examples of honor and nobility.
Cultural Significance of Gilbert
The name 'Gilbert' has cultural significance in various contexts. In literature, 'Gilbert' has been used as a character name in several notable works. One prominent example is 'Gilbert' Blythe, a beloved character from Lucy Maud Montgomery's 'Anne of Green Gables' series. 'Gilbert' Blythe is portrayed as a kind-hearted and intelligent young man, making the name 'Gilbert' synonymous with charm and intelligence.
In addition to literature, the name 'Gilbert' holds significance in the field of music. 'Gilbert' and Sullivan, the famous duo of W.S. 'Gilbert' and Arthur Sullivan, revolutionized the world of operetta in the late 19th century. Their works, such as 'The Pirates of Penzance' and 'The Mikado', continue to be celebrated today. The association with this iconic duo adds a touch of artistic flair to the name 'Gilbert'.