“God's peace” — Associated with various historical figures
England origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#8470US 2023
9Births / yr
↓Falling
3.2kAll-time births
📅 Since 188000.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Godfrey
GAH·dfree
/ˈɡɑ.dfriː/ · stress on GAH · 2 syllables
“God's peace”
Associated with various historical figures · England origin
What does Godfrey mean and where does it come from?
Godfrey originates from the Old High German name 'Godefrid,' with 'goda' meaning 'God' and 'frid' meaning 'peace.' It was common among medieval nobility and has a rich history associated with various historical figures. Famous bearers include Godfrey of Bouillon, a leader in the First Crusade. The n
Cultural significance
Godfrey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god's peace.
Falling — down 516 spots — currently #8470 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#8470 · Top 6.3%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#8470
9
▼ down 516 · -10% births
2022
#7954
10
▼ down 1506 · -23% births
2021
#6448
13
▲ up 119 · +8% births
2020
#6567
12
▲ up 4075 · +100% births
2015
#10642
6
▼ down 3556 · -45% births
2010
#7086
11
▼ down 862 · -8% births
2005
#6224
12
▲ up 1203 · +50% births
2000
#7427
8
▼ down 3992 · -58% births
1995
#3435
19
▼ down 652 · -17% births
1990
#2783
23
▼ down 484
1985
#2299
23
▼ down 14 · +5% births
1980
#2285
22
▼ down 143 · +5% births
1975
#2142
21
▼ down 294 · -9% births
1970
#1848
23
▲ up 335 · +64% births
1965
#2183
14
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Godfrey
1905Rank #684
57
#3274
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Godfrey
Godfrey has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 3,196 total births recorded, Godfrey remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #659 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #8470 in 2023.
Godfrey means "God's peace" — a name rooted in England 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 Godfrey?
Godfrey is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Godfrey?
Godfrey originates from England tradition. England 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 Godfrey?
Godfrey is a two-syllable name pronounced G AA1 D F R IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Godfrey a common or rare name?
Godfrey is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Godfrey
For a sister
Godfrey & Lucy♡
Godfrey & Margaret♡
Godfrey & Edwin♡
Godfrey & Edgar♡
For a brother
Godfrey & Edwin♡
Godfrey & Edgar♡
Godfrey & Louisa♡
Godfrey & Hansford♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#8470
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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