📅 Since 1880🏆 51 years in top 1000.8% of births at peak
How to pronounce Gertrude
GER·trood
/ˈɡɝ.truːd/ · stress on GER · 2 syllables
“Spear of strength”
Germanic origin · Unisex name
What does Gertrude mean and where does it come from?
Gertrude originates from the Germanic elements 'ger', meaning 'spear', and 'trud', meaning 'strength'. The name has been popular in various forms throughout history and has been borne by several saints, including St. Gertrude of Nivelles, a 7th-century abbess. While the name was very popular in the
Cultural significance
Gertrude has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of spear of strength.
Holding steady — currently #1176 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#1176 · Top 0.87%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1176
1,024
▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022
#1181
1,004
▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021
#1186
974
▲ up 3041 · +2944% births
2020
#4227
32
▲ up 889 · +23% births
2015
#5116
26
▲ up 2097 · +53% births
2010
#7213
17
▲ up 672 · +21% births
2005
#7885
14
▼ down 1680 · -18% births
2000
#6205
17
▲ up 2562 · +89% births
1995
#8767
9
▼ down 269
1990
#8498
9
▼ down 3423 · -36% births
1985
#5075
14
▼ down 1939 · -48% births
1980
#3136
27
▼ down 1115 · -37% births
1975
#2021
43
▼ down 315 · -20% births
1970
#1706
54
▼ down 733 · -52% births
1965
#973
112
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Gertrude
1900Rank #23
6,077
#2384
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Gertrude
Gertrude has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #22 in 1906. More than 177,519 babies have been named Gertrude since 1880. Once ranked #25 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1176 in 2023. Gertrude is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Gertrude means "Spear of strength" — a name rooted in Germanic tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Gertrude?
Gertrude is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Gertrude?
Gertrude originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Gertrude?
Gertrude is a two-syllable name pronounced G ER1 T R UW0 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Gertrude a common or rare name?
Gertrude is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Gertrude
For a sister
Gertrude & Otto♡
Gertrude & Emma♡
Gertrude & Amelia♡
Gertrude & Cordula♡
For a brother
Gertrude & Robert♡
Gertrude & Otto♡
Gertrude & Voight♡
Gertrude & Henry♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1176
🇬🇧 UK
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🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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