Gareth is a Welsh name of ancient origin, derived from the name Garreth or Geraint, which are themselves derived from the older Celtic name Guanarith. The meaning of Gareth is believed to be "gentle" or "soft," although some sources suggest it may mean "spear strength."
The name Gareth first appeared in Welsh literature in the 12th century, associated with a character in the Arthurian legend known as the Mabinogion. In these tales, Gareth is portrayed as one of King Arthur's knights who is not initially recognised for his worth due to his humble beginnings. However, he eventually proves himself to be a brave and noble warrior.
Throughout history, the name Gareth has been associated with Wales and its culture. It was popular among Welsh royalty, including several princes and kings named Gareth. In more recent times, the name has gained popularity beyond Wales, becoming a popular choice for boys' names in English-speaking countries around the world.
Despite its ancient origins and historical significance, Gareth remains a relatively uncommon name today, making it a unique choice for parents looking for something distinctive yet classic for their child. Whether you're drawn to its meaning of gentleness or its rich historical heritage, choosing Gareth as your son's name is sure to make him stand out in a special way.
The name Geretha appears to have been relatively uncommon in the United States during the mid-20th century, with a total of just 37 babies born with this name between 1925 and 1956. The peak years for the name were 1925 and 1943, each with 8 births. However, it's worth noting that even in these peak years, Geretha was still a rare name, as there were only 6 births in 1939 and 5 births in both 1940 and 1947. The most recent year for which data is available is 1956, with 7 births recorded that year. Overall, Geretha was not a particularly popular name during this time period, with an average of fewer than 2 births per year over the 32-year span.