Gervase is a name of Latin origin that means "servant." It is derived from the Latin word "gerere," which means "to bear" or "carry." The name was popular during medieval times, particularly in England and France.
The name Gervase first appeared in history around the 8th century. Saint Gervasius of Verona, a Christian martyr who was executed for his faith, is believed to have been born with this name. He became a popular saint in Europe, and many churches were dedicated to him during the Middle Ages.
In medieval England, Gervase was a common given name. It was often used by noble families, including the powerful de Gerveuse family who lived in Normandy. The name also appeared frequently among the clergy, as several priests and bishops were named Gervase.
Throughout history, people with the name Gervase have made notable contributions to various fields. For example, Gervase Markham was a 17th-century English poet and writer on agriculture, while Gervais Charpentier was a French philosopher and theologian of the same period.
Today, Gervase is still used as a given name, although it is less common than in medieval times. It remains a unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with historical roots and a meaning that reflects strength and service.
Statistics on the given name Gervase in the United States from 1915 to present reveal a fluctuating trend in its usage over time.
From 1915 to 1936, there was a consistent number of babies named Gervase each year, ranging from a low of 5 births in 1921 and 1935 to a high of 16 births in 1930. The most popular years for the name during this period were 1920 with 14 births and 1930 with 16 births.
However, from 1937 onwards, there appears to be a significant decrease in the popularity of the name Gervase. Between 1937 and 1945, there were only 8 births recorded each year. The trend continued with only 5 births recorded in both 1960 and 1945.
In summary, while the name Gervase was moderately popular during the early to mid-20th century, it has since become quite rare, with fewer than 10 babies being named Gervase each year after 1936. Despite this decline in popularity, it is important to note that every name has its own unique story and meaning for those who choose it.