What does Gustaf mean and where does it come from?
Gustaf is a name of Swedish origin that means 'staff of the Goths.' This name has been borne by several kings of Sweden, contributing to its prominence and regal connotation. The name has variations, such as Gustav and Gustave, and remains popular in Scandinavian countries. Its use can be traced bac
Cultural significance
Gustaf has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Sweden-speaking communities, where it reflects values of staff of the goths.
Peak popularity
Reached #607 in 1884 — currently #12871 in the US.
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Related Reading
Sweden-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Gustaf?
Gustaf works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gustaf Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Gustaf Rose
Floral · soft ending
Gustaf Mae
Sweet · timeless
Gustaf Claire
French influence · crisp
Gustaf Jane
Literary · strong
Gustaf Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Gustaf right now?
Falling — down 4205 spots — currently #12871 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #12871 | 5 | ▼ down 4205 · -37% births |
| 2020 | #8666 | 8 | ▲ up 1982 · +33% births |
| 2015 | #10648 | 6 | ▼ down 947 · -14% births |
| 2010 | #9701 | 7 | ▲ up 467 · +17% births |
| 2005 | #10168 | 6 | ▲ up 205 · +20% births |
| 2000 | #10373 | 5 | ▼ down 3950 · -37% births |
| 1995 | #6423 | 8 | ▲ up 147 · +60% births |
| 1985 | #6570 | 5 | ▼ down 273 |
| 1980 | #6297 | 5 | ▼ down 4203 · -64% births |
| 1930 | #2094 | 14 | ▲ up 678 · +40% births |
| 1925 | #2772 | 10 | ▼ down 421 · -23% births |
| 1920 | #2351 | 13 | ▼ down 973 · -46% births |
| 1915 | #1378 | 24 | ▼ down 506 · +167% births |
| 1905 | #872 | 9 | ▲ up 133 · +50% births |
| 1895 | #1005 | 6 | — |
The story of Gustaf
Gustaf has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 742 total births recorded, Gustaf remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #867 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12871 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Gustaf in 1884:
Gustaf by decade
Gustaf peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 66 | |
| 1890s | 66 | |
| 1900s | 55 | |
| 1910s ★ | 149 | |
| 1920s | 116 | |
| 1930s | 35 | |
| 1940s | 6 | |
| 1950s | 33 | |
| 1960s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 12 | |
| 1980s | 32 | |
| 1990s | 43 | |
| 2000s | 61 | |
| 2010s | 50 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎Gustaf has only 742 total recorded births since 1880 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Gustaf?
What names sound and feel like Gustaf?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gustaf also consider these
How is Gustaf written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Gustaf
What does the name Gustaf mean?
Gustaf means "Staff of the Goths" — a name rooted in Sweden 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 Gustaf?
Gustaf 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 Gustaf?
Gustaf originates from Sweden tradition. Sweden 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 Gustaf?
Gustaf is a two-syllable name pronounced G UW1 S T AA0 F. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Gustaf a common or rare name?
Gustaf is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.