Gaillard is a masculine given name of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "gaillart," which means "bold" or "cheerful." The name Gaillard has a strong and energetic sound to it, reflecting its meaning.
The origins of the name Gaillard can be traced back to the Middle Ages in France. During this period, it was often used as a surname given to individuals who were considered bold, lively, or joyful. Over time, Gaillard evolved from a surname into a given name, and it has been used as such in France for several centuries.
Gaillard has not been particularly popular as a given name in recent years, but it remains a distinctive and unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon name with a strong meaning. Some notable individuals who have borne the name Gaillard include the French poet François-Vincent Gaillard (1734-1805) and the French-American artist Jean-Louis Gaillard (1924-2016).
The name Gaillard appears to be quite rare, with only six babies born with this name in the United States during the year of 1913. This statistic suggests that Gaillard may have been more popular at one time but has since fallen out of favor as a given name. Despite its rarity today, it's important to note that having an uncommon name can be quite unique and distinctive.