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Lancelot Boy

Popularity: #917 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationLAN-suh-lot / ˈlænsəˌlɒt

French; Arthurian legend

Meaning

French: servant; Arthurian legend: knight of the Round Table

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Lancelot is believed to have originated from the Old French name "Lancelot," which itself is derived from the Latin "Lanceolus," meaning "little lance." The etymological roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "lans," which refers to a spear or lance. This name entered the English language through the medieval romances of Arthurian legend, particularly in the 12th century, when the tales of King Arthur and his knights were popularized by writers such as Chrétien de Troyes. The character of Sir Lancelot became one of the most celebrated knights of the Round Table, known for his chivalric deeds and tragic love for Queen Guinevere.

Lancelot's prominence in literature was solidified through various adaptations and retellings of Arthurian legends, including Sir Thomas Malory's "Le Morte d'Arthur" in the 15th century. This work played a significant role in shaping the modern perception of the Arthurian saga and solidified Lancelot's status as a quintessential knight. The character's narrative arc often explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the complexities of love, particularly in his relationship with Guinevere, which has resonated through centuries of storytelling.

Culturally, Lancelot embodies the ideals of chivalry and courtly love, making him a symbol of the medieval knightly ethos. His character has been interpreted in various forms of art, literature, and performance, reflecting the enduring fascination with the Arthurian legends. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms, such as "Lance," which have been used in different contexts. Overall, Lancelot's legacy is deeply intertwined with the cultural and literary history of the Middle Ages, representing both the heroic and tragic elements of knightly life.

Trend Summary

The name Lancelot has seen fluctuating popularity, often associated with medieval themes.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Lancelotte

International Variants

  • Lancelot (French)
  • Lancelote (Spanish)

Famous people named Lancelot

Fictional characters named Lancelot

Lancelot is a fictional character from the Arthurian legend and various adaptations. He is one of the Knights of the Round Table and is famously known for his affair with Queen Guinevere.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Lancelot was first seen in the United States in 1908. Lancelot has ranked as high as #1104 nationally, which occurred in 1984, and has been most popular in California, and New York. In the past 5 years the name Lancelot has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Lancelot (2006)

StateBirthsShare
CA 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19085
19155
19166
19195
19206
19215
19245
19316
19425
19476
19495
19546
19556
19576
19585
19615
19635
19646
19658
19676
19687
19717
197212
19736
19747
19759
19766
19775
19808
198112
198212
198311
198418
19859
19865
198712
198810
198913
199012
19918
199216
199311
19947
199516
199611
19979
199811
199913
200011
200111
200211
200311
200414
200512
200616
200711
200810
20098
201014
20119
20129
20137
20145
201511
201610
20176
20186
20196
20205
20215
20226
20239
20247