US Popularity Rank: 7806

Origin: German

Meaning: Strong spear

Gertrude is one of those vintage names that will never die out for its sheer elegance. Typically given to girls, Gertrude comes from the Old High German Gertrud, composed of ancient elements with the meanings “spear” and “strength.” (Bonus points for the adorable nicknames Gertie and Trudy!) Gertrude comes steeped in feminine power, famously borne by Saint Gertrude the Great, a venerated mystic from the 13th century and patron of the dead. Gertrude also features in Shakespeare’s Hamlet as the titular character’s mother, making it a chic Shakespearean name for your little one.