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Geoffrey Boy

Popularity: #884 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationJEFF-ree / ˈdʒɛf.ri

Old French; Germanic

Meaning

Old French: God's peace; Germanic: pledge of peace

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Geoffrey has its roots in the Old French name "Geoffroi," which itself is derived from the Germanic elements "gawja," meaning "territory," and "frid," meaning "peace." This name was introduced to England by the Normans during the 11th century, following the Norman Conquest of 1066. The transition from "Geoffroi" to "Geoffrey" in English reflects the phonetic adaptations that occurred as the name was assimilated into the English language, influenced by the linguistic shifts of the time.

Historically, the name Geoffrey has been borne by several notable figures, including Geoffrey of Monmouth, a 12th-century cleric and historian known for his work "Historia Regum Britanniae," which contributed to the legend of King Arthur. Additionally, Geoffrey Chaucer, the 14th-century poet and author of "The Canterbury Tales," further solidified the name's significance in English literature. The name also appears in various forms in medieval texts and records, indicating its use among the nobility and clergy during the Middle Ages.

Culturally, Geoffrey has been associated with themes of peace and territory, reflecting the meanings of its Germanic roots. The name has often been linked to nobility and scholarship, particularly due to its association with historical figures who contributed to literature and history. Diminutive forms such as "Geoff" have emerged, but the name Geoffrey itself has maintained a distinct identity throughout its history. The enduring legacy of the name is evident in its continued recognition in various cultural contexts, from literature to historical accounts.

Trend Summary

Geoffrey has seen a decline in popularity in the United States since the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Jeffrey
  • Geoff
  • Geoffrey

International Variants

  • Gottfried (German)
  • Goffredo (Italian)
  • Joffrey (French)

Famous people named Geoffrey

Geoffrey Rush is an actor best known for Shine, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The King's Speech.

Geoffrey Beene is a fashion designer best known for his eponymous label and contributions to American fashion.

Geoffrey Chaucer is a poet best known for The Canterbury Tales and is often referred to as the Father of English literature.

Geoffrey Holder is an actor and director best known for his work in the film Annie and his role in the 7 Up commercials.

Geoffrey Zakarian is a chef and television personality best known for his appearances on Chopped, The Kitchen, and as a restaurateur.

Fictional characters named Geoffrey

Geoffrey is a fictional character from the TV show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. He is the Banks family's loyal butler who often provides comic relief and wisdom to the household.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Geoffrey was first seen in the United States in 1895. Geoffrey has ranked as high as #342 nationally, which occurred in 1975, and has been most popular in California, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Geoffrey has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Geoffrey (2024)

StateBirthsShare
FL 7
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18955
19005
19035
19088
19105
19115
19127
191317
191412
191518
19169
191718
191824
191923
192020
192123
192212
192322
192420
192522
192617
192725
192819
192920
193030
193131
193225
193339
193431
193526
193643
193751
193869
193988
1940148
1941223
1942235
1943300
1944279
1945321
1946458
1947578
1948584
1949588
1950614
1951565
1952624
1953668
1954670
1955710
1956793
1957747
1958773
1959734
1960798
1961824
1962794
1963821
1964846
1965866
1966838
1967883
1968947
19691,138
19701,287
19711,196
19721,053
1973977
19741,179
19751,395
19761,297
19771,263
19781,272
19791,263
19801,224
19811,245
19821,289
19831,320
19841,325
19851,322
19861,263
19871,305
19881,231
19891,208
19901,098
1991972
1992845
1993670
1994612
1995536
1996416
1997375
1998367
1999280
2000278
2001269
2002240
2003236
2004209
2005174
2006170
2007153
2008116
2009150
2010103
2011115
2012120
2013104
201497
201581
201680
201776
201870
201955
202046
202140
202248
202353
202440