Walter is a classic male given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the German word "waldar", which means "ruler of the army". The name Walter has been widely used throughout history, particularly in medieval Europe.
The popularity of the name Walter can be attributed to several historical figures who bore this name. One of the most notable was Walter of Aquitaine, also known as Walter the Penniless, who was a French nobleman and crusader during the 12th century. Another famous bearer of the name was Walter Scott, the Scottish novelist and poet who is best known for his historical novels such as "Ivanhoe" and "Rob Roy".
Throughout history, the name Walter has been associated with strength, leadership, and wisdom. It has been a popular choice among parents looking to give their children a classic and timeless name with a strong meaning.
Today, Walter continues to be used as a given name for boys in many parts of the world. While its popularity has varied over time, it remains a beloved and respected name that carries with it a rich history and powerful meaning.
The name Walter experienced a significant decline in popularity from the late 1800s to the present day, with the peak of its usage occurring during World War I. Between 1915 and 1925, there were over 100 births per year with the name Walter, but by the mid-1960s, this number had dwindled to fewer than 30 births annually. Since the 1970s, the name has been used less than ten times a year on average, indicating that it is now quite rare.