Geoffrey is a masculine given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old French name "Jefroy," which was itself derived from the Germanic name "Gaufridus." This name is composed of two elements: "gao" meaning "pledge" or "oath," and "frið" meaning "peace." Therefore, Geoffrey's full meaning can be interpreted as "pledge of peace."
The name Geoffrey was brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066. It became quite popular during the Middle Ages and has remained a common name ever since. Some notable figures throughout history have borne this name, including Geoffrey Chaucer, the famous English poet, and several saints, such as Saint Geoffrey of Amiens.
In literature, Geoffrey is often associated with tales of chivalry and adventure, thanks to characters like Geoffrey of Monmouth's "Merlin" and Sir Thomas Malory's "Le Morte d'Arthur." Today, Geoffrey remains a classic yet distinctive name that evokes traditions of valor and wisdom.
The name Geoffrey has been a presence in the United States over several decades, with a total of 221 babies being given this name since 1949. The popularity of the name has fluctuated over time, with peaks and troughs throughout the years.
In the late 1950s to early 1960s, Geoffrey was quite popular, with seven or more births each year from 1959 to 1962. This period saw the highest concentration of Geoffrey births, with a total of 34 births in just four years.
The late 1960s and early 1970s also saw a surge in Geoffrey births, with 14 babies given this name in 1970 alone, the highest number in any single year. This decade had a total of 52 births, indicating that Geoffrey was still popular during this time.
However, the popularity of Geoffrey began to decline in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with fewer than ten births per year from 1976 to 1984. This trend continued into the 1990s and 2000s, with only five or six Geoffrey births each year.
Despite its declining popularity in recent years, Geoffrey remains a classic name with a rich history in the United States. With over two centuries of usage dating back to the late 18th century, it has been passed down through generations and continues to be chosen by parents today.