Meaning, origin, history
Kurt is a name of German origin, derived from the Old High German word "curti," which means "short" or "brief." The name has been used in Germany since medieval times and was traditionally given to boys born with short stature.
In English-speaking countries, the name Kurt gained popularity in the early 20th century due to its association with notable figures such as Austrian-British composer Kurt Weill, German-American physicist Kurt Gödel, and German-American conductor Kurt Masur. Today, Kurt remains a popular choice for parents seeking a unique yet timeless name for their baby boys.
The name Kurt has been used by people from diverse backgrounds throughout history. Some famous individuals named Kurt include actor Kurt Russell, musician Kurt Cobain, and author Kurt Vonnegut. Despite its Germanic roots, the name Kurt has been embraced by families across cultures and nationalities, demonstrating its universality and appeal.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Kurt since 1880
Total births
85,732
Total since 1880
Peak year
1964
3,159 births
in 2023
57
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-15%
↘
vs previous 5 years