All about the name

Godfrey

Male

« Godfrey is a Germanic name meaning "peace of God". »

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Meaning, origin, history

Godfrey is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German elements "god" meaning "god" and "frith" meaning "peace". Thus, the name Godfrey translates to "peace of god". The name has been popular throughout history, particularly among European nobility. One of the most notable figures with this name was Godfrey of Bouillon, a 11th-century French nobleman who was one of the leaders of the First Crusade and became the first Christian ruler of Jerusalem. In England, Godfrey was used as a given name from an early date, appearing in records such as the Domesday Book of 1086. It continued to be used throughout the Middle Ages and into the modern era, although its popularity has varied over time. Today, Godfrey is still considered a classic and distinguished name, often associated with historical figures like Godfrey of Bouillon. However, it remains relatively uncommon compared to more popular names, which makes it a unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Godfrey since 1880

Total births
3,229
Total since 1880
Peak year
1918
71 births
in 2023
9
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+45%
vs previous 5 years