US Popularity Rank: 25251

Origin: German

Meaning: Famous spearman

Rutger is a boy’s name of ancient Germanic origin, popular in the Netherlands. A variant of Roger, it combines the elements hrōþiz (fame, renown, glory) and gaizaz (spear) to mean “famous spearman” or “famous spear.” It was the name of a legendary sixth-century Danish king who is mentioned in Beowulf and some Norse sagas. Hearkening back to a long-ago time of mythical heroes, this epic name is perfect if you’re looking for a more unusual alternative to Roger.