Meaning, origin, history
Guthrie is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Guthrey," which is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name "Mac Ghobhainn." This Gaelic name consists of two elements: "mac," meaning "son of," and "Gobhann," a personal name that is believed to be derived from the Old Norse word "gōðvin," meaning "good friend."
The surname Guthrie has been associated with Scotland for centuries, with many notable Scottish clans bearing this name. The most prominent among them are the Guthries of Guthrie in Angus and the Guthries of that Ilk, a branch of the Clan Chisholm.
The Guthrie clan played an important role in Scottish history. They were known as warriors and had several notable figures among their ranks, including Sir Patrick Guthrie-Carnock, a Scottish army officer who served during the Napoleonic Wars, and Sir Alexander Guthrie, a 17th-century Scottish judge and politician.
While Guthrie is primarily a masculine name, it has also been used as a feminine given name in some cases. However, its usage remains quite rare for females.
In popular culture, one of the most famous individuals with the surname Guthrie is Woody Guthrie, the iconic American folk singer-songwriter whose work inspired many musicians during the 20th century. This association may have contributed to the increased visibility and popularity of the name in recent times.
Overall, Guthrie is a strong and unique given name that carries with it a rich history and Scottish heritage. Its meaning, "good friend," lends itself well to the spirit of camaraderie and friendship that has long been associated with Scottish culture. Despite its rarity as a given name, Guthrie remains an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Guthrie since 1880
Total births
12
Total since 1880
Peak year
1923
7 births
in 1923
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years