Gareth Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationGAIR-eth / /ˈɡɛr.əθ/Welsh; English
Meaning
Welsh: gentle; English: spear strength
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Gareth has its roots in the Welsh language, derived from the Old Welsh name "Geraint," which is believed to mean "gentle" or "gracious." The etymology can be traced back to the Proto-Celtic *geranto-, which carries connotations of strength and valor. The name entered the English language through the influence of Arthurian legends, where Gareth is depicted as one of the Knights of the Round Table, a character known for his noble qualities and chivalric virtues. This association with the legendary King Arthur, who is a central figure in British folklore, helped to popularize the name in medieval England.
Gareth's historical significance is further underscored by its appearance in various literary works. The character of Gareth is notably featured in Sir Thomas Malory's "Le Morte d'Arthur," published in the 15th century, which solidified the name's connection to the chivalric ideals of the time. The tales of Arthur and his knights were instrumental in shaping medieval English literature and culture, and Gareth's role as a virtuous knight contributed to the name's enduring legacy.
Culturally, the name Gareth has been associated with themes of honor, bravery, and loyalty, reflecting the qualities of its legendary namesake. The name's resonance in Welsh culture is also significant, as it embodies the rich heritage and traditions of Wales. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Gary" have emerged, although they are less historically rooted. Overall, Gareth's journey through linguistic evolution and its ties to significant cultural narratives have established it as a name of historical and cultural importance.
Trend Summary
Gareth has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable decline in recent decades.
Similar Names
Variants
- Garreth
- Garett
International Variants
- Gareth (Welsh)
- Garett (English)
Famous people named Gareth
Gareth Bale is a professional footballer best known for playing with Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur, and the Wales national team.
Gareth Edwards is a former rugby player best known for his time with the Wales national team and the British Lions.
Gareth Pugh is a fashion designer best known for his avant-garde designs and work in the fashion industry.
Gareth Southgate is a football manager best known for managing the England national team and leading them to the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Gareth Thomas is a former rugby player and television presenter best known for his career with the Wales national team and his work on reality television.
Fictional characters named Gareth
Gareth is a fictional character from the video game series Fire Emblem. He is a skilled tactician and a key ally in the story, often providing strategic support to the main characters.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Gareth was first seen in the United States in 1916. Gareth has ranked as high as #1319 nationally, which occurred in 2016, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Gareth has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Gareth (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 9 | |
FL | 8 | |
TX | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1916 | 5 |
1919 | 7 |
1920 | 5 |
1921 | 33 |
1922 | 21 |
1923 | 17 |
1924 | 9 |
1925 | 14 |
1926 | 16 |
1927 | 15 |
1928 | 16 |
1929 | 10 |
1930 | 9 |
1931 | 14 |
1932 | 14 |
1933 | 12 |
1934 | 18 |
1935 | 25 |
1936 | 21 |
1937 | 22 |
1938 | 30 |
1939 | 21 |
1940 | 33 |
1941 | 25 |
1942 | 28 |
1943 | 39 |
1944 | 28 |
1945 | 26 |
1946 | 25 |
1947 | 33 |
1948 | 25 |
1949 | 29 |
1950 | 28 |
1951 | 25 |
1952 | 28 |
1953 | 19 |
1954 | 20 |
1955 | 20 |
1956 | 17 |
1957 | 13 |
1958 | 25 |
1959 | 18 |
1960 | 17 |
1961 | 28 |
1962 | 23 |
1963 | 29 |
1964 | 21 |
1965 | 24 |
1966 | 15 |
1967 | 28 |
1968 | 25 |
1969 | 30 |
1970 | 57 |
1971 | 29 |
1972 | 25 |
1973 | 23 |
1974 | 28 |
1975 | 30 |
1976 | 31 |
1977 | 36 |
1978 | 37 |
1979 | 45 |
1980 | 51 |
1981 | 49 |
1982 | 69 |
1983 | 53 |
1984 | 60 |
1985 | 49 |
1986 | 65 |
1987 | 59 |
1988 | 69 |
1989 | 53 |
1990 | 64 |
1991 | 58 |
1992 | 78 |
1993 | 72 |
1994 | 52 |
1995 | 75 |
1996 | 77 |
1997 | 74 |
1998 | 73 |
1999 | 82 |
2000 | 79 |
2001 | 71 |
2002 | 80 |
2003 | 81 |
2004 | 66 |
2005 | 75 |
2006 | 56 |
2007 | 54 |
2008 | 52 |
2009 | 44 |
2010 | 49 |
2011 | 52 |
2012 | 45 |
2013 | 53 |
2014 | 102 |
2015 | 102 |
2016 | 104 |
2017 | 88 |
2018 | 67 |
2019 | 58 |
2020 | 47 |
2021 | 44 |
2022 | 55 |
2023 | 47 |
2024 | 50 |