Gerard: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are celebratory traditions, especially prevalent in many Catholic and Eastern European countries, where individuals honor the saint whose name they share. The name Gerard carries a powerful legacy, steeped in Germanic history signifying "spear strength" or "brave with the spear." In the United States, it is a classically established name, recognized but moderately used, often associated with European heritage. The mood of Gerard is traditionally strong and quietly elegant, suggesting maturity and sophisticated reliability. Gerard is notably celebrated across several dates throughout the year, marking special observances in countries like Poland, France, and the USA.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Gerard's name day is celebrated
on January 30 in Poland,
April 23 in Poland,
September 24 in Poland,
October 3 in France (
Gérard) and Poland,
October 16 in Poland and the USA,
November 24 in Poland and
December 5 in France (
Gérard).
The Story Behind This Name
The name Gerard possesses a long history in the Western world, arriving in the United States primarily through immigration waves from Europe. While never achieving peak popularity like classic names such as John or William, Gerard maintained consistent usage throughout the 20th century. Its prominence peaked slightly in the mid-20th century, often associated with Irish, Dutch, and French heritage. Today, Gerard is considered a recognizable yet moderately uncommon name within contemporary American naming trends. Its historical roots lend it an air of established dignity within the US cultural landscape.
Name origin and meaning
The name Gerard is of ancient Germanic origin, stemming from the combination of two powerful root elements. The first component is *ger*, meaning "spear," a significant symbol of martial prowess. The second element is *hard*, which translates to "brave," "hardy," or "strong." Therefore, the name is typically interpreted as meaning "spear strength" or "brave with the spear." This composition reflects a traditional warrior ethos common in early European naming conventions. It has long been adapted into various languages, such as the French Gérard and the Dutch Gerrit.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Gerard is historically, culturally, and globally recognized almost exclusively as a male given name. It maintains its status as strictly masculine across major Western countries, including the United States, France, and the Netherlands. Historically, linguistically, and statistically, there is virtually no documented significant usage of this name for females. While regional phonetic variations exist, the core name Gerard remains consistently identified with the masculine gender. Worldwide, Gerard should be understood as a traditional, unequivocally male identifier.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
The mood associated with Gerard is distinctly strong and historical, conveying a sophisticated dignity. It carries an elegant tone, sounding substantial and classically European rather than overly modern or casual. There is a serious, steady vibe to the name, suggesting reliability and maturity in its bearers. While powerful, the name avoids harshness, maintaining a polished, distinguished feel. Overall, Gerard projects an image that is authoritative, traditional, and subtly influential.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Gerard
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 8 – The Powerhouse.
Keywords: Power, ambition, material success, authority, confidence.
Positive Traits: Strong-willed, business-minded, disciplined, ambitious, efficient.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, controlling, or work-obsessed.
Life Path Meaning: A path focused on achieving success, power, and financial security.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 8 - The Achiever.
Traits: Ambitious, goal-oriented, authoritative, financially focused.
Strengths: Strong leadership, good at managing money, disciplined.
Challenges: Can be materialistic, dominant, or overly focused on success.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Saturn - Discipline, Responsibility, Structure.
Saturn represents discipline, structure, and perseverance. Names influenced by Saturn often belong to individuals who are serious, wise, and highly responsible. These names reflect resilience, patience, and a strong work ethic. People with Saturn-ruled names tend to be grounded and practical, often taking on leadership roles that require long-term planning and commitment.
Name days: Name Gerard
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
Poland | January | 30 | Adelajda, Feliks, Gerard, Gerarda, Gerhard, Hiacynta, Maciej, Marcin, Martyna, Sebastian |
Poland | April | 23 | Adalbert, Gerard, Gerarda, Gerhard, Helena, Jerzy, Wojciech |
Poland | September | 24 | Gerard, Gerarda, Gerhard, Maria, Teodor, Tomir, Uniegost |
France | October | 3 | Gérard, Sybille |
Poland | October | 3 | Eustachiusz, Eustachy, Ewald, Gerard, Gerarda, Gerhard, Heliodor, Józefa, Kandyd, Sierosław, Teresa |
Poland | October | 16 | Ambroży, Aurelia, Dionizy, Florentyna, Galla, Gallina, Gaweł, Gerard, Gerarda, Gerhard, Grzegorz, Radzisław |
USA | October | 16 | Avice, Avis, Gerar, Gerard, Gerardo, Gerrard, Hedda, Hedwig, Hedy, Heide, Heidi, Jerard, Noah, Noe |
Poland | November | 24 | Dobrosław, Emilia, Emma, Flora, Franciszek, Gerard, Gerarda, Gerhard, Jan, Mina, Protazy, Pęcisław |
France | December | 5 | Gérald, Gérard |
Name days: Similar names (Gerard)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
Gerard A Name of Strength and Elegance
Derived from Germanic elements meaning "spear strength," the name Gerard establishes a foundation of traditional power and courage. It functions globally as an exclusively masculine identifier, maintaining a distinguished presence across regions. In the USA, it remains a historical name of moderate usage, lending an air of classical dignity to its bearers. The pervasive mood of Gerard is one of steady strength and polished elegance, avoiding any fleeting, modern trends. Furthermore, the name's strong historical association is recognized annually through multiple name day celebrations across the European continent and in the United States.
When Is Your Name Day?
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