Jerrold is a unique and distinctive male given name of English origin. The name is derived from the Old English word "ger," which means "spear," combined with the suffix "-old," meaning "noble" or "powerful." Therefore, Jerrold can be interpreted as meaning "noble spear."
The name Jerrold has a long and fascinating history. It was first used in England during the Middle Ages, where it was often given to children born into noble families. The name gained popularity throughout Europe over time, particularly in countries like Germany and Scandinavia.
One of the most notable figures associated with the name Jerrold is the English poet and dramatist James Shirley Jerrold, who lived from 1803 to 1853. Known for his historical plays and poems, Jerrold was a prominent figure in British literature during the Victorian era.
Today, Jerrold remains a relatively uncommon given name, but it is still used by some families looking for a distinctive and meaningful moniker for their sons. The name's unique origin and historic significance make it an appealing choice for parents who want to give their child a special name with deep roots in English history.
The name Jerrold experienced a significant increase in popularity during the early to mid-20th century, peaking around World War II with over 180 births per year between 1941 and 1945. However, by the late 1950s, its usage began to decline steadily, reaching an all-time low of just 7 births in 2010. Since then, it has remained relatively uncommon, with fewer than 10 births per year recorded from 2011 onwards.