Oscar

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Oscar

Gender Boy
Origin Scandinavian
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation AH-sker

Oscar, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Scandinavian origin.

Meaning of Oscar

Accurate spearsman

Oscar is a masculine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'os' meaning "God" and 'carr' meaning "spear". It is associated with nobility, courage, and wisdom.

Save
Rate:
(3/5 from 120 votes)
Meaning Accurate spearsman
Origin Scandinavian
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #217 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Moderate (Top 250)
Era Vintage (1900s)

Background & History of The Name Oscar

The name Oscar is of Old English and Gaelic origin. It is derived from the Old English name Osgar, which is composed of the elements "os" meaning "god" and "gar" meaning "spear." In Gaelic, Oscar translates to "deer lover" or "champion warrior." The name Oscar has a long history and has been used by various cultures and languages throughout the centuries.

In literature, the name Oscar gained popularity through the famous Irish writer Oscar Wilde, known for his wit and literary contributions. Wilde's iconic work "The Importance of Being Earnest" has further cemented the name Oscar in literary and cultural references.

In addition to its literary fame, Oscar has also gained recognition in the entertainment industry. Notably, the Academy Awards, often referred to as the Oscars, are the most prestigious awards in the film industry. Named after the statuette awarded to winners, the Academy Awards have been honoring excellence in cinematic achievements since 1929.

Across the world, Oscar remains a popular given name. In countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Brazil, it is consistently chosen for newborns. The name's appeal may stem from its versatility, offering a strong and masculine sound suitable for different cultural backgrounds.

Furthermore, individuals named Oscar are often described as charismatic, confident, and determined. These qualities, along with the name's rich history and associations, contribute to its enduring popularity. Whether it be in literature, the film industry, or personal identity, the name Oscar continues to leave a lasting impression.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Oscar over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Oscar would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Oscar.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names