Geralt is a distinctive and unique male given name of Polish origin. Its meaning is derived from the Old Slavic words "ger" which means "spear" or "lance," and "alt" which signifies "noble." Therefore, Geralt translates to "noble spear."
The name Geralt has been present in Polish history for centuries. One notable historical figure with this name is Geralt of Olesnica (c.1320-1378), a Piast prince who ruled over the Duchy of Olesnica. He was known for his military prowess and political achievements, which may have contributed to the name's association with nobility and strength.
In recent years, the name Geralt has gained international recognition due to its use in popular culture. The most notable example is the main character in the video game series "The Witcher," developed by CD Projekt Red. This character, Geralt of Rivia, is a mutated monster hunter known as a witcher, who navigates through a dark fantasy world filled with political intrigue and supernatural creatures.
Despite its recent popularity in global pop culture, Geralt remains a name deeply rooted in Polish history and tradition. Its unique meaning and rich historical background make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a strong connection to its roots.
The name Geralt has seen a notable increase in popularity among parents in the United States over the past few years, as evidenced by the birth statistics. In 2018, only five newborns were given this distinctive name, but by 2020, that number had grown to twenty-two, indicating a significant jump in its usage.
The upward trend continued into the following years, with fourteen babies named Geralt in 2021 and an impressive twenty-nine in 2022. Although there was a slight dip in popularity in 2023, with seventeen newborns bearing this name, it is clear that Geralt has established itself as a popular choice among American parents.
In total, over the five-year period from 2018 to 2023, there were eighty-seven babies named Geralt across the United States. This steady increase in popularity suggests that many parents are drawn to this unique name for their children.