Robert
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Robert
Robert, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Robert
Bright fame
Robert is a masculine given name derived from the Germanic elements "hrod" meaning “fame” and "berht" meaning “bright” or “famous”, and is associated with the Old High German word for “bright fame”. It is one of the most common given names in the English-speaking world, and is popular across Europe.
| Meaning | Bright fame |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #90 in 2024 Steady |
| Rarity (US) | Common (Top 100) |
| Era | Vintage (1920s) |
Background & History of The Name Robert
The name Robert is of Germanic origin and is derived from the Old High German name Hrodebert, which means "bright fame". It is a highly popular given name and has widespread usage across many English-speaking countries, as well as in various European countries. Dating back to medieval times, the name Robert has a rich history and has been borne by many notable individuals.
One of the most well-known bearers of the name Robert is Robert the Bruce, the legendary Scottish king who played a pivotal role in Scottish independence from England in the 14th century. His leadership and military successes earned him a place in history, and he continues to be revered as a symbol of national pride in Scotland.
In the literary world, the name Robert is often associated with the iconic character Robert Langdon, created by American author Dan Brown. Langdon, a Harvard professor of symbology, is the protagonist of Brown's best-selling novels, including "The Da Vinci Code" and "Angels & Demons". The character's intelligence, knowledge, and problem-solving abilities have endeared him to readers worldwide.
Furthermore, in the field of science, Robert has left an indelible mark. Robert Hooke, an English scientist from the 17th century, made significant contributions to various scientific disciplines, including biology, physics, and architecture. Hooke's law, which outlines the relationship between the force applied to a spring and the resulting deformation, remains a fundamental principle in physics.
Overall, the name Robert carries a sense of strength, intelligence, and historical significance. Its timeless appeal and association with notable figures have contributed to its enduring popularity throughout the centuries.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Robert over the years.
Similar English Baby Names
Check Initials
See what initials Robert would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Robert.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account