Meaning, origin, history
Robert is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German words "Hrod" meaning fame and "bert" meaning bright or shining. Therefore, Robert means "bright with fame" or "famous with bright."
The name Robert has been popular throughout history, particularly in Europe. It was borne by several notable figures, such as Saint Robert of Molesme, the founder of the Cistercian order, and Robert the Bruce, the king of Scotland who defeated the English at the Battle of Bannockburn.
In literature, Robert appears prominently in works like "Robert's Rules of Order," a widely used manual for parliamentary procedure, and as the main character in Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel "Treasure Island."
Today, Robert remains a popular name around the world. According to various sources, it is among the top 500 names worldwide and consistently ranks within the top 1000 baby boy names in many countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European nations.
In terms of its usage over time, Robert's popularity has waxed and waned. It was particularly popular during the late 19th to early mid-20th century but fell out of favor later on. However, it has seen a resurgence in recent years, indicating that this classic name continues to appeal to parents even today.
Overall, Robert is a strong, traditional name with a rich historical and cultural legacy, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a timeless and meaningful moniker.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Robet since 1880
Total births
945
Total since 1880
Peak year
1969
26 births
in 1993
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years