Surname Gerald - Meaning and Origin

The iGENEA DNA Test: A Journey into the Roots of 'Gerald' and My Family Identity

My iGENEA DNA Test has opened a new chapter in my understanding of my heritage and has definitively reshaped my thinking about my surname and its significance. The surname 'Gerald' and its unexpected roots have shed light on my family history, giving me a sense of deep connection to my ancestors and empowering me with the strength of my diverse lineage.

K. Gerald

Gerald: What does the surname Gerald mean?

The last name Gerald is of Germanic origin, derived from a Germanic element meaning "rule" or "spear" combined with a suffix meaning “-wolf”. It was one of the most popular given names during the Middle Ages, used widely in Britain and France, popular among the royalty and nobility.

The name Gerald is often associated with courage and strength. It has been used for centuries as a powerful figure or name for leaders. In English, Gerald has come to be associated with the traits of justice and management.

The name Gerald also bears an association with strength, stability, and a deep sense of loyalty. In Gaelic tradition, Gerald is derived from the word "gearr," meaning "brave."*** This association reinforces Gerald's strong association with courage and strength.

Historically, Gerald has also been associated with the Norman invasion of Britain. One of the earliest records of the name dates back to 1066 and William the Conqueror's conquest of England. The Norman invaders were given lands in England and many took the name Gerald for their leadership.

The Gerald surname signifies strength, leadership, courage, and justice. In today's world, the name Gerald carries with it the legacy of those who have shared and shaped it over centuries of history. It is often associated with courageous leaders and a deep sense of loyalty and stability.

Gerald: Where does the name Gerald come from?

The last name Gerald is most commonly found in the English-speaking world, though it has spread to other countries through immigration. In the United States it is ranked 1,046th in terms of population, with approximately 20,000 people carrying the name. It is most commonly found in Southern states like Virginia, Florida, Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, though it is also popular in the Midwest (e.g. Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana). Outside of the United States, the name is particularly common in Ireland, where it ranks 22nd. In England, it ranks 234th. It is also popular in Canada, Australia, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands.

The relative popularity of the name has decreased in recent years, and it is likely to become significantly less common over the coming years as families opt for more modern names. Nevertheless, it remains a relatively recognizable name, offering uniqueness alongside a long heritage.

Variations of the surname Gerald

Gerald is a surname with Latin and Germanic origins, most commonly found in English, French, Dutch and German-speaking countries. The given name derives from the Germanic ‘Gerald’, itself derived from the Proto-Germanic words ‘ger’ meaning ‘spear’ and ‘wald’ meaning ‘rule’.

Variants of the surname Gerald include Jerald, Giraud, Girault, Giraldo, Giraldus, Geraldo, Giraudy, Giraulte, Girard, Girardeau, Jerauld, Gerrard, Jarald, Jarrard, Jarratt, Jaratt, Gerard, Jerred and Geralds.

Occitan spellings of the surname include Gerard, Girault, Giraud, Giraulte, Giraldo, Giraldon, Giraldus and Girard. An Old High German spelling of the name is Garold.

Surnames of similar origin include Garret, Jarrett, Garratt, Garrett, Garforth, Garrod, Garrard, Garrity, Gerrick, Gerardot, Garabedian, Garretson, Jarreau, Garrad and Garrettson.

The most famous bearer of the name is Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States. Other famous Gerald names include musician Gerald Levert, actor Gerald McRaney and British Prime Minister James Callaghan, who was born as James Gerald Callaghan.

Famous people with the name Gerald

• Jerry Gerald: Pastor and Media Personality
• Gerald Swindle: Professional Bass Angler
• Gerald Shields: American Football Player
• Gerald Riggs Jr.: Former NFL Running Back
• Gerald Levert: American R&B Singers
• Gerald Casale: American Musician
• Gerald Wallace: Retired NBA Player
• Gerald Giam: Member of Singapore Parliament
• Gerald Ford: 38th President of the United States
• Gerald Davis: Musician and Composer
• Gerald Durrell: Naturalist, Author and Television Presenter
• Gerald Hensley: New Zealand Diplomat and Adviser
• Gerald Green: NBA Player
• Gerald McCoy: NFL Defensive Tackle
• Gerald Ratner: British Businessman
• Gerald Levert: Singer and Songwriter
• Gerald McRaney: American Actor
• Gerald Casale: American Musician and Visual Artist
• Gerald Posner: American Investigative Journalist
• Gerald Seib: Executive Washington Editor of the Wall Street Journal

Other surnames