Kurt Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationKurt / /kɜrt/German; Scandinavian
Meaning
German: bold; Scandinavian: court
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kurt has its roots in the Germanic language, derived from the Old High German name "Konrad," which means "bold counsel" or "brave advisor." This name evolved through various forms, including the Middle High German "Kurt," before being adopted into modern German. The transition into English occurred primarily through the influence of German immigrants and the cultural exchange between Germany and English-speaking countries, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Historically, the name Kurt has been associated with several notable figures. One significant milestone is the use of the name in the context of German nobility, where it was borne by various princes and counts throughout the Middle Ages. Additionally, the name gained prominence in literature and the arts, particularly in the 20th century, with figures such as the German playwright Kurt Weill, who contributed to the cultural landscape of the Weimar Republic and beyond. The name has also been linked to various saints and religious figures, although specific references are less common compared to other names.
Culturally, Kurt has been embraced in various traditions, often symbolizing strength and leadership due to its etymological meaning. The name's association with boldness and counsel has made it a favored choice in German-speaking regions, and it has been carried into various forms of media, including literature and film. A diminutive form, "Kurtchen," has also been used affectionately in German-speaking families, reflecting the name's versatility and enduring appeal. Overall, Kurt embodies a rich historical and cultural significance that has contributed to its lasting presence in various societies.
Trend Summary
Kurt experienced peak popularity in the mid-20th century in the United States.
Similar Names
Variants
- Curt
- Kurtis
International Variants
- Kurt (Turkish)
- Kurtis (English)
Famous people named Kurt
Kurt Cobain is a musician best known for being the lead singer and guitarist of Nirvana.
Kurt Russell is an actor best known for Escape from New York, The Thing, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.
Kurt Vonnegut is an author best known for Slaughterhouse-Five, Cat's Cradle, and Breakfast of Champions.
Kurt Angle is a retired professional wrestler best known for his time in WWE and Olympic gold medal achievements.
Kurt Warner is a former American football quarterback best known for his time with the St. Louis Rams and winning Super Bowl MVP.
Kurt Sutter is a writer and producer best known for creating Sons of Anarchy and The Bastard Executioner.
Kurt Masur is a conductor best known for his work with the New York Philharmonic and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Kurt Weill is a composer best known for his collaborations with Bertolt Brecht and works like The Threepenny Opera.
Fictional characters named Kurt
Kurt Wagner is a fictional character from the comic book series X-Men. He is a mutant known as Nightcrawler, famous for his teleportation abilities and blue, demonic appearance.
Kurt Hummel is a fictional character from the TV series Glee. He is a talented singer and performer who navigates the challenges of high school while embracing his identity as a gay teenager.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kurt was first seen in the United States in 1894. Kurt has ranked as high as #235 nationally, which occurred in 1964, and has been most popular in California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, and Wisconsin. In the past 5 years the name Kurt has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kurt (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 10 | |
CA | 8 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1894 | 7 |
1896 | 9 |
1899 | 5 |
1905 | 6 |
1906 | 5 |
1908 | 6 |
1910 | 6 |
1911 | 12 |
1912 | 18 |
1913 | 26 |
1914 | 29 |
1915 | 45 |
1916 | 28 |
1917 | 40 |
1918 | 31 |
1919 | 28 |
1920 | 37 |
1921 | 33 |
1922 | 32 |
1923 | 47 |
1924 | 41 |
1925 | 45 |
1926 | 53 |
1927 | 45 |
1928 | 62 |
1929 | 67 |
1930 | 77 |
1931 | 56 |
1932 | 64 |
1933 | 64 |
1934 | 69 |
1935 | 92 |
1936 | 106 |
1937 | 135 |
1938 | 134 |
1939 | 143 |
1940 | 194 |
1941 | 193 |
1942 | 258 |
1943 | 296 |
1944 | 294 |
1945 | 264 |
1946 | 373 |
1947 | 535 |
1948 | 519 |
1949 | 671 |
1950 | 789 |
1951 | 944 |
1952 | 1,466 |
1953 | 1,515 |
1954 | 1,692 |
1955 | 1,933 |
1956 | 2,387 |
1957 | 2,427 |
1958 | 2,672 |
1959 | 2,816 |
1960 | 2,881 |
1961 | 2,826 |
1962 | 3,019 |
1963 | 3,131 |
1964 | 3,159 |
1965 | 2,875 |
1966 | 2,846 |
1967 | 2,742 |
1968 | 2,453 |
1969 | 2,281 |
1970 | 2,197 |
1971 | 1,874 |
1972 | 1,582 |
1973 | 1,235 |
1974 | 1,233 |
1975 | 1,087 |
1976 | 1,018 |
1977 | 1,120 |
1978 | 1,065 |
1979 | 1,250 |
1980 | 1,281 |
1981 | 1,160 |
1982 | 1,180 |
1983 | 973 |
1984 | 979 |
1985 | 1,016 |
1986 | 1,059 |
1987 | 1,023 |
1988 | 1,043 |
1989 | 973 |
1990 | 957 |
1991 | 744 |
1992 | 691 |
1993 | 587 |
1994 | 554 |
1995 | 537 |
1996 | 482 |
1997 | 439 |
1998 | 368 |
1999 | 334 |
2000 | 315 |
2001 | 273 |
2002 | 278 |
2003 | 244 |
2004 | 230 |
2005 | 182 |
2006 | 182 |
2007 | 157 |
2008 | 139 |
2009 | 134 |
2010 | 112 |
2011 | 111 |
2012 | 108 |
2013 | 131 |
2014 | 113 |
2015 | 121 |
2016 | 122 |
2017 | 93 |
2018 | 90 |
2019 | 97 |
2020 | 94 |
2021 | 72 |
2022 | 81 |
2023 | 57 |
2024 | 71 |