Roger

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Roger

Gender Boy
Origin German
Letters 5
Syllables 2
Pronunciation RAH-jur

Roger, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of German origin.

Meaning of Roger

Fame spear

The name Roger is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'ger' meaning 'spear'. It is commonly understood to mean 'famous spear'.

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Meaning Fame spear
Origin German
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #750 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1940s)

Background & History of The Name Roger

The name 'Roger' is a masculine given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old German name 'Hrodger', which is composed of the elements 'hrod', meaning "fame" or "glory," and 'ger', meaning "spear." Therefore, the name 'Roger' can be interpreted to mean "famous with the spear" or "renowned warrior." The name has been in use since the medieval times and was popularized in England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name 'Roger.'

One famous bearer of the name 'Roger' is Roger Bacon, an English philosopher, theologian, and scientist who lived in the 13th century. Bacon is known for his groundbreaking work in the fields of optics and alchemy, and is often regarded as one of the pioneers of the scientific method. His influential writings promoted empirical observation and experimentation as the basis for knowledge, challenging traditional scholasticism.

An iconic fictional character named Roger is Roger Chillingworth, a central character in Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, "The Scarlet Letter." Published in 1850, the novel tells the story of Hester Prynne, a woman condemned for adultery in Puritan New England. Roger Chillingworth, Hester's estranged husband, becomes obsessed with seeking revenge against Hester's unnamed lover, ultimately with disastrous consequences.

In modern times, the name 'Roger' has retained its popularity, although it is less commonly used than in previous centuries. The name carries a sturdy and timeless quality, often associated with traits such as bravery, strength, and honor. It has also been used as a given name for several notable public figures, including Roger Federer, the renowned Swiss tennis player who has achieved numerous records and is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.

Popularity Over Time

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

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