All about the name
Frank
Male
« Frank is a masculine given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Germanic tribal name Franks. It means "free" or "bold". Notable historical figures include Charlemagne Frank, while literature features characters like Franz Kafka's Frank Kafka. Today, it remains popular in English-speaking countries due to its appealing and strong image. »
#468
last year
Meaning, origin, history
Frank is a masculine given name of Germanic origin, derived from the Germanic tribal name Franks. The Franks were a group of Germanic tribes who settled in the region around the Rhine river during the Roman Empire.
The name Frank itself means "free" or "bold". This meaning comes from the Old High German word "franko", which was used to describe the free people living within the Frankish kingdom. Over time, the name evolved and became associated with the idea of being independent and brave.
Throughout history, several notable figures have carried the name Frank. One of the most well-known is Charles "Charlemagne" Frank, who ruled the Frankish Empire in the late 8th and early 9th centuries. He was a significant figure in European history, known for his military accomplishments and cultural achievements.
In literature, Frank has been used as a character name in several works. One example is Frank Kafka, the protagonist of Franz Kafka's novel "The Trial". In pop culture, Frank is also a popular name among musicians, with notable examples including Frank Sinatra and Frank Ocean.
Today, Frank remains a popular given name for boys in many parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and Britain. Its meaning and Germanic origins continue to give it an appealing and strong image.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Frank since 1880
Total births
914,732
Total since 1880
Peak year
1918
17,018 births
in 2023
646
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-10%
↘
vs previous 5 years