“Ruler of the army” — Associated with figures like Walt Disney
American origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#2841US 2023
45Births / yr
↑Rising
2.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 189300
How to pronounce Walt
WAWLT
/ˈwɔlt/ · stress on WAWLT · 1 syllable
“Ruler of the army”
Associated with figures like Walt Disney · American origin
What does Walt mean and where does it come from?
Walt is a diminutive of Walter and derives from the Old High German 'Waldhar.' The name became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, often associated with figures like Walt Disney, a pioneer in animation and entertainment. Its strong connotations of leadership contribute to its fav
Cultural significance
Walt has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of ruler of the army.
Rising fast — up 113 spots — currently #2841 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#2841 · Top 2.1%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2841
45
▲ up 113 · +5% births
2022
#2954
43
▼ down 39
2021
#2915
43
▼ down 91 · +2% births
2020
#2824
42
▲ up 1720 · +100% births
2015
#4544
21
▲ up 948 · +31% births
2010
#5492
16
▲ up 2851 · +100% births
2005
#8343
8
▼ down 882
2000
#7461
8
▼ down 418 · +14% births
1995
#7043
7
▼ down 1168 · -12% births
1990
#5875
8
▼ down 2634 · -43% births
1985
#3241
14
▼ down 119
1980
#3122
14
▼ down 812 · -26% births
1975
#2310
19
▼ down 680 · -32% births
1970
#1630
28
▼ down 160
1965
#1470
28
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Walt
1945Rank #935
61
#3135
↘Falling
1915 - 202325 years
The story of Walt
Walt has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. With 2,436 total births recorded, Walt remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2883 in 1915 to #2841 in 2023.
Walt means "Ruler of the army" — a name rooted in American 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 Walt?
Walt is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Walt have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Walt?
Walt originates from American tradition. American 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 Walt?
Walt is a one-syllable name pronounced W AO1 L T. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Walt sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Walt flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Walt ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Walt
For a sister
Walt & Summer♡
Walt & Rosemary♡
Walt & Dariel♡
Walt & Marshall♡
For a brother
Walt & Summer♡
Walt & Jason♡
Walt & Kevin♡
Walt & Rosemary♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks