Jeralyn is an uncommon, yet captivating feminine given name of American origin. It is believed to have been derived from the masculine name Gerald, which itself has ancient roots traced back to Old Germanic languages. The name Gerald was composed of two elements: 'gar', meaning 'spear', and '-wald', signifying 'rule'. Therefore, Jeralyn could be interpreted as a feminine variation of this name, potentially translating to 'rules with a spear' or more metaphorically, 'strong leader'.
The uniqueness of Jeralyn lies in its sound and spelling. It offers a distinct alternative to more common names like Geraldine or Jeri. The combination of the letter 'j' at the beginning and the soft 'n' at the end gives it a modern and playful touch. Despite its masculine origins, Jeralyn has been predominantly used as a feminine name in recent times.
The name Jeralyn appears to have gained popularity during the late 20th century in the United States but remains relatively rare today. It is not found in other countries' top-name lists or historical records, contributing to its uniqueness and individuality.
In literature and popular culture, there are no prominent characters named Jeralyn, allowing the name to maintain a sense of mystery and individualism. This could be an appealing factor for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter.
Overall, Jeralyn is a compelling choice for those looking for a rare yet strong-sounding feminine given name with an intriguing backstory rooted in ancient language and culture. Its uniqueness ensures that it will always stand out, making it a memorable and captivating name option.
The name Jeralyn appears to have had significant popularity throughout the mid-20th century, with the highest number of births occurring in 1942 (21 births). However, this popularity waned over time, with the lowest recorded year being 2017 and 2020 (5 births each), indicating that the name has become less common in recent years. Overall, there have been a total of 1328 births with the name Jeralyn since 1930.