Geraldine

Meaning of Geraldine

Geraldine (JER-uh-leen) began life as the feminine flip-side of the sturdy Germanic Gerald—“spear ruler”—but she soon carved out a reputation all her own, thanks to a dash of Irish romance and a few high-profile headliners. Sixteenth-century poet Henry Howard first used “The Fair Geraldine” to honor Lady Elizabeth FitzGerald, and ever since the name has felt equal parts courtly and feisty, like a heroine who can swing that symbolic spear with grace. American parents really fell under her spell in the 1940s and ’50s—think trailblazing congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro and silver-screen darling Geraldine Page—before she slipped into hidden-gem territory, now hovering in the 800s of the U.S. charts. For families who love vintage charm but still want a name that sounds fresh in the playground, Geraldine offers a warm, lilting rhythm, cute built-in nicknames (Geri, Dina, even Dean if you’re bold), and a legacy that whispers both “classic” and “courage” every time you call her to dinner.