Walter

What does the baby name Walter mean? Learn about what Walter means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Walter - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Walter: W-A-L-T-E-R, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Walter: WAWL-tər; WAL ter
Meaning of Walter: Army ruler, army rule, woods or army general, powerful warrior.
Origin of Walter: The name 'Walter' has Germanic origins and can be traced back to the Old High German name 'Waltari', which means 'ruler of the army' or 'mighty warrior'. Its earliest known use dates back to the medieval period, and it was commonly used among the Germanic tribes.; American Names; Celtic Names; English Names; German Names; Germanic Names; Hungarian Names; Norman Names; Scottish Names; Surname Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Walter: Bhaltair; Gatier; Gaultier; Gauthier; Gautier; Gualterio; Gualtiero; Ualter; Valter; Valther; Walder; Wally; Walt; Walther; Wat; Wata; Watkins
Popularity of Walter: 'Walter' has had a fluctuating popularity over time. In the early 20th century, it was a widely used name, ranking consistently in the top 20 names for boys in the United States. However, its popularity declined in the latter half of the century, and it is now considered a less common name. Despite this, 'Walter' still holds a sense of timeless charm and sophistication.; Walter currently has 201 likes, and is in the top 2% of liked boy's names. The name Kyler is slightly more popular than Walter.

Etymology of Walter

As mentioned earlier, the name 'Walter' derives from the Old High German 'Waltari', which means 'ruler of the army' or 'mighty warrior'. This etymology reflects the strong and powerful connotations associated with the name. It also highlights the importance of strength and leadership in the Germanic culture from which the name originated.

Cultural Significance of Walter

The name 'Walter' has cultural significance in various contexts. In literature, it is associated with notable characters such as 'Walter' White from the television series 'Breaking Bad' and 'Walter' Mitty from the short story 'The Secret Life of 'Walter' Mitty' by James Thurber. These characters embody different aspects of the name, showcasing its versatility and depth.

In addition, the name 'Walter' has historical significance. It has been borne by several influential figures throughout history, such as 'Walter' Raleigh, the English explorer, and 'Walter' Gropius, the German architect and founder of the Bauhaus school. These individuals have left a lasting impact in their respective fields, further enhancing the cultural significance of the name.