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Kurt Boy

Popularity: #853 · Trend: ↘ Falling

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)

StateBirthsShare
TX 10
56%
CA 8
44%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18947
18969
18995
19056
19065
19086
19106
191112
191218
191326
191429
191545
191628
191740
191831
191928
192037
192133
192232
192347
192441
192545
192653
192745
192862
192967
193077
193156
193264
193364
193469
193592
1936106
1937135
1938134
1939143
1940194
1941193
1942258
1943296
1944294
1945264
1946373
1947535
1948519
1949671
1950789
1951944
19521,466
19531,515
19541,692
19551,933
19562,387
19572,427
19582,672
19592,816
19602,881
19612,826
19623,019
19633,131
19643,159
19652,875
19662,846
19672,742
19682,453
19692,281
19702,197
19711,874
19721,582
19731,235
19741,233
19751,087
19761,018
19771,120
19781,065
19791,250
19801,281
19811,160
19821,180
1983973
1984979
19851,016
19861,059
19871,023
19881,043
1989973
1990957
1991744
1992691
1993587
1994554
1995537
1996482
1997439
1998368
1999334
2000315
2001273
2002278
2003244
2004230
2005182
2006182
2007157
2008139
2009134
2010112
2011111
2012108
2013131
2014113
2015121
2016122
201793
201890
201997
202094
202172
202281
202357
202471