All about the name

Edgar

Male

« Edgar is an English name of Old Germanic origin, translating to "wealthy spear", brought to England by the Normans in the 11th century and popularized during King Edgar's reign. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Edgar is a name of English origin that has been used throughout history and has gained popularity in various countries around the world. Its meaning is derived from its Old Germanic roots, where it means "wealthy spear". This name was brought to England by the Norman conquerors in the 11th century. The name Edgar became particularly popular during the reign of King Edgar the Peaceful (also known as St. Edward the Confessor), who ruled England from 959 to 975. He was a significant figure in English history, known for his efforts to unify and stabilize the kingdom after years of turmoil following the death of King Edmund I. His legacy continues to influence the usage of the name Edgar today. In literature, the name Edgar is famously associated with the works of Charles Dickens and Edgar Allan Poe. In Dickens' novel "The Pickwick Papers," the character Samuel Weller has a friend named Mr. Edwin, also known as Edgar. Meanwhile, in Poe's stories, there are characters named Edgar who play significant roles. Throughout history, the name Edgar has been borne by numerous notable individuals, such as Edgar Degas, the French Impressionist painter; Edgar Hoover, the first Director of the FBI; and Edgar Wright, the English film director known for his work on movies like "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz." These figures have contributed to the enduring appeal of the name. Today, Edgar remains a popular choice for parents looking for a strong, historical, and distinctive name for their child. Its meaning, wealth speared with strength, continues to resonate with many families who choose this classic name for their sons.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Edgar since 1880

Total births
155,898
Total since 1880
Peak year
2005
2,453 births
in 2023
714
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-13%
vs previous 5 years