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George

♂ Boy

Pronounced JORJ /dʒɔːrdʒ/High

Meaning: Farmer; worker of the earth — from Greek <em>georgos</em>, a compound of <em>ge</em> (earth) and <em>ergon</em> (work)High

In 30 seconds: From the Greek for 'earthworker,' George has been a cornerstone of English naming for 1,500 years. Patron saint of England, name of six British kings, and two U.S. presidents — it's a name of unshakeable solidity.
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Origin HighGreek
MeaningFarmer; worker of the earth — from Greek <em>georgos</em>, a compound of <em>ge</em> (earth) and <em>ergon</em> (work)
Peak year1921
Total births (all-time)≈ 1,464,186

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 192118802017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

George derives from the Greek Georgios, from georgos meaning 'farmer' or 'earthworker' — a compound of ge (earth) and ergon (work). Saint George, a Christian martyr of the 3rd century, became venerated across Europe. He was adopted as patron saint of England in the 14th century.

George became widespread in England following the Crusades, when devotion to Saint George intensified. The Hanoverian succession brought four King Georges to Britain (1714–1830), cementing the name's royal associations. Six British monarchs have been named George. It was also borne by George Washington and George H.W. Bush. After decades of decline, George has strongly revived since 2010.

Did you know? Saint George, the dragon-slaying patron of England, was likely a real 3rd-century Roman soldier martyred in Palestine around 303 AD, though the dragon legend was added centuries later.

Variations

JorgeGeorgGiorgosGiorgio

Nicknames

GeorgieGeo

Famous Bearers

  • ★George Washington (1732–1799)
    First President of the United States and commander of the Continental Army.
  • ★George Orwell (1903–1950)
    British novelist, author of <em>1984</em> and <em>Animal Farm</em>.

If you like George…

Arthur— fellow regal British classic experiencing a strong modern revival
Henry— another royal English stalwart beloved for its sturdy history
Edward— traditional English royal name sharing George's dignified weight
William— the other great pillar of English royal naming

Frequently Asked

What does the name George mean?

George comes from the Greek <em>georgos</em> meaning 'farmer' or 'earthworker,' a compound of <em>ge</em> (earth) and <em>ergon</em> (work).

How do you pronounce George?

George is pronounced JORJ /dʒɔːrdʒ/ — a single syllable.

Is George a boy or girl name?

George is a traditional boy's name. Georgia and Georgie are feminine forms.

How popular is George?

George has been experiencing a strong revival since 2010 and is now a top-10 boys' name in the UK, with growing popularity in the U.S. as well.