Gustaf Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: GOOS-taaf //ˈɡʊstɑːf//
Origin: Scandinavian; Old Norse
Meaning: Staff of the Goths; royal staff
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Gustaf has its roots in the Old Norse name Guðstafr, which is composed of the elements 'guð' meaning 'god' and 'stafr' meaning 'staff' or 'support.' This name evolved through various linguistic stages, transitioning from Old Norse to the medieval Scandinavian forms, and eventually to the modern Swedish Gustaf. The name was introduced into English through the influence of Scandinavian languages, particularly during the Viking Age and subsequent interactions between the Norse and Anglo-Saxon cultures.
Historically, the name Gustaf is notably associated with several Swedish kings, particularly Gustaf I, who reigned in the 16th century and is recognized for founding the modern Swedish state. His reign marked the establishment of the Vasa dynasty, which played a significant role in shaping Sweden's national identity.
The name continued to be borne by subsequent monarchs, including Gustaf II Adolf, a prominent figure in the Thirty Years' War during the 17th century, further cementing its historical significance in Swedish history. Culturally, the name Gustaf has been embraced in various forms of literature and art, often symbolizing strength and leadership.
Its historical resonance is enhanced by its association with notable figures in Swedish history and the broader Scandinavian context. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms, such as Gustafsson, which denotes 'son of Gustaf,' reflecting the patronymic naming traditions prevalent in Scandinavian cultures.
Overall, the name Gustaf carries a legacy that intertwines linguistic evolution, royal heritage, and cultural symbolism.
Famous people named Gustaf
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Gustaf was first seen in the United States in 1880. Gustaf has ranked as high as #827 nationally, which occurred in 1917, and has been most popular in Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Gustaf has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Gustaf (1928)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880 | 6 |
| 1881 | 5 |
| 1882 | 7 |
| 1883 | 8 |
| 1884 | 11 |
| 1885 | 5 |
| 1887 | 9 |
| 1888 | 5 |
| 1889 | 10 |
| 1890 | 9 |
| 1891 | 8 |
| 1893 | 7 |
| 1894 | 6 |
| 1895 | 6 |
| 1896 | 8 |
| 1897 | 9 |
| 1898 | 7 |
| 1899 | 6 |
| 1901 | 5 |
| 1902 | 7 |
| 1904 | 5 |
| 1905 | 9 |
| 1906 | 6 |
| 1907 | 7 |
| 1908 | 8 |
| 1909 | 8 |
| 1911 | 6 |
| 1912 | 11 |
| 1913 | 15 |
| 1914 | 16 |
| 1915 | 24 |
| 1916 | 18 |
| 1917 | 25 |
| 1918 | 13 |
| 1919 | 21 |
| 1920 | 13 |
| 1921 | 15 |
| 1922 | 14 |
| 1923 | 11 |
| 1924 | 7 |
| 1925 | 10 |
| 1926 | 17 |
| 1927 | 5 |
| 1928 | 13 |
| 1929 | 11 |
| 1930 | 14 |
| 1931 | 5 |
| 1932 | 5 |
| 1933 | 6 |
| 1934 | 5 |
| 1941 | 6 |
| 1951 | 5 |
| 1953 | 6 |
| 1954 | 5 |
| 1956 | 7 |
| 1958 | 5 |
| 1959 | 5 |
| 1961 | 5 |
| 1962 | 5 |
| 1973 | 6 |
| 1976 | 6 |
| 1980 | 5 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1985 | 5 |
| 1986 | 9 |
| 1989 | 8 |
| 1992 | 7 |
| 1993 | 7 |
| 1995 | 8 |
| 1996 | 5 |
| 1997 | 9 |
| 1998 | 7 |
| 2000 | 5 |
| 2001 | 5 |
| 2002 | 7 |
| 2003 | 5 |
| 2004 | 6 |
| 2005 | 6 |
| 2007 | 11 |
| 2008 | 10 |
| 2009 | 6 |
| 2010 | 7 |
| 2011 | 7 |
| 2012 | 6 |
| 2014 | 8 |
| 2015 | 6 |
| 2017 | 10 |
| 2018 | 6 |
| 2020 | 8 |
| 2023 | 5 |