Gertrude is a feminine given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Old German words "ger" meaning "spear" and "trud" meaning "strength". Therefore, Gertrude translates to "strong in battle".
The name Gertrude was popular among the Germans during the Middle Ages and it was introduced to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest of 1066. In literature, the most notable bearer of this name is Gertrude, the mother of Hamlet in William Shakespeare's tragedy "Hamlet". This character has contributed to the name's association with older generations.
Despite its historical significance and literary connections, Gertrude remains a relatively uncommon name today. Its antique sound might be perceived as outdated or old-fashioned by some people. However, those who appreciate unique and distinctive names may find Gertrude appealing due to its rich history and strong meaning. Overall, Gertrude is a name that carries a powerful message while still being connected to cultural heritage.
Statistics on the given name Gertrude show a fluctuating trend in popularity over time in the United States. Here's a breakdown of the available data:
* In 1915, there were 9 births recorded for the name Gertrude.
* The following year, in 1916, the number decreased slightly to 6 births.
* After several years, in 1920, the popularity of the name rebounded with 7 births registered that year.
* In 1926, there were 5 recorded births for the name Gertrude.
Altogether, over these four years (1915-1926), a total of 27 babies were named Gertrude in the United States. It's interesting to note how the popularity of this name has varied over time, with peaks and troughs occurring approximately every few years.