GERARD
Gerard
The surname Gerard is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the personal name "Gerard," which itself is composed of the elements "gar," meaning "spear," and "hard," meaning "brave" or "hardy." The name can be found in various forms across Europe, with the English version being Gerard.
Origins
The surname Gerard has been documented in England since the medieval period. It is believed to have been introduced following the Norman Conquest of 1066. The name has Norman-French roots and was brought to England by the invading forces of William the Conqueror.
Distribution
The surname Gerard is predominantly found in England, particularly in regions that saw early Norman influence. Over time, Gerard has spread to other English-speaking regions, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Bearers
The surname Gerard has been borne by various noteworthy individuals throughout history. This includes:
- Gerard Manley Hopkins: A renowned English poet of the 19th century.
- Gerard Butler: A Scottish actor known for his roles in films such as "300" and "The Phantom of the Opera."
- Gerard Deulofeu: A Spanish professional footballer who has played for Barcelona and Watford, among others.
Variants
The surname Gerard has various forms and variations, including Gerhard, Gerad, and Garrard. These variations often depend on regional influences and historical factors.
Legacy
The surname Gerard remains a prominent and recognisable name in British and global contexts. Its historical significance, coupled with the achievements of notable bearers, has contributed to its enduring legacy. The name continues to be passed down through generations, maintaining its place in the rich tapestry of British surnames.
There are approximately 913 people named Gerard in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,920th most common surname in Britain. Around 14 in a million people in Britain are named Gerard.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Philip
- Richard
- Thomas
Female
- Ann
- Anne
- Anne-marie
- Caroline
- Claire
- Laura
- Linda
- Michelle
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Sharon
- Sophie
- Susan
- Yvonne
Similar and related surnames
- Garrett
- Gerrard
- Garritt
- Garrott
- Garret
- Garrard
- Garrod
- Garratt
- Garard
- Gerrad
- Gerardi
- Gerardo
- Geraerts
- Gerardin
- Gerards
- Gerarty
- Geraud
- Gerer
- Gerhard
- Gerhardi
- Gerhards
- Gerord
- Gerrar
- Gerrards
- Gerrerd
- Gerrord
- Gerrurd
- Giard
- Girard
- Girardeau
- Girardet
- Girardi
- Girardier
- Girardin
- Girardo
- Girardot
- Giraud
- Girerd
- Girouard
- Girrard
- Jarard
- Jarrard
- Jarrerd
- Jarrold
- Jerard
- Jerrard
- Jerrerd
- Jerrord
- Gerardos
- Geard
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.