Fitzgerald

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What does the baby name Fitzgerald mean? Learn about what Fitzgerald means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Fitzgerald - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Fitzgerald

F-I-T-Z-G-E-R-A-L-D, is a 10-letter male given name.

Pronunciation of Fitzgerald

FITS-jehr-əld

FITZ jerr old

Meaning of Fitzgerald

Son of gerald, son of a powerful ruler, gerald's son.

Origin of Fitzgerald

The name 'Fitzgerald' finds its origins in Ireland, where it emerged as a patronymic surname. Derived from the Gaelic name 'Mac Gearailt', it translates to 'son of Gerald'. The prefix 'Mac' meaning 'son of' was commonly used in Gaelic surnames to denote lineage. Gerald, in turn, is an Anglo-Norman name derived from the Germanic elements 'ger' meaning 'spear' and 'wald' meaning 'rule'. The earliest known use of the name 'Fitzgerald' dates back to the 12th century, making it a name steeped in history.

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Popularity of Fitzgerald

Throughout history, the popularity of the name 'Fitzgerald' has experienced fluctuations. In Ireland, the name gained prominence during the medieval period when the 'Fitzgerald' family rose to prominence as one of the most powerful and influential dynasties in the country. However, it was during the 19th and 20th centuries that the name 'Fitzgerald' began to spread beyond Ireland's borders. Irish immigrants brought the name to countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, contributing to its global recognition.

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Etymology of Fitzgerald

Delving into the linguistic roots of the name 'Fitzgerald', we find that its etymology is closely tied to its Gaelic origins. The Gaelic name 'Mac Gearailt' combines the elements 'mac' meaning 'son of' and 'Gearailt', which is the Gaelic form of Gerald. The Germanic origins of Gerald, as mentioned earlier, further add to the multifaceted nature of the name 'Fitzgerald'.

Cultural Significance of Fitzgerald

The name 'Fitzgerald' holds particular cultural significance in Ireland, where it is associated with the influential 'Fitzgerald' family. This family played a pivotal role in Irish history, holding titles such as the Earls of Kildare and the Dukes of Leinster. Their legacy is intertwined with the country's political, social, and cultural fabric, making the name 'Fitzgerald' a symbol of Irish heritage and nobility.