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Jerold

♂ Boy

Pronounced JER-uhld /ˈdʒɛr.əld/Medium

Meaning: A variant of Gerald (Jerrold), from Germanic 'ger' ('spear') plus 'wald' ('rule; power') — 'ruler of the spear.' The J- spelling matched the mid-century American sound.Low

In 30 seconds: A strong old name: Jerold means 'ruler of the spear' (Germanic), said 'JER-uhld' — a spin on Gerald.

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Origin LowGermanic

MeaningA variant of Gerald (Jerrold), from Germanic 'ger' ('spear') plus 'wald' ('rule; power') — 'ruler of the spear.' The J- spelling matched the mid-century American sound.

U.S. rank (2022)#10278 ↘ Falling

2022 U.S. births7 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year1942

Total births (all-time)≈ 7,434

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Jerold respells Gerald (Jerrold), from Germanic 'ger' ('spear') and 'wald' ('rule') — 'ruler of the spear.' The J- form fit the mid-century American ear, peaked in 1942, and faded after (said 'JER-uhld').

Jerold belonged to the mid-century generation and is rare today. Rare, strong, and vintage.

Did you know? Jerold is a J-spelling of Gerald ('ruler of the spear') that peaked around 1942 and has faded since.

Overall data confidence 50%

References — Jerold — Variant of Gerald; Germanic 'ruler of the spear'

Variations

GeraldJerroldJerald

Nicknames

JerryJer

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Famous bearers coming soon.

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Jerold mean?

Jerold is a variant of Gerald/Jerrold, from Germanic roots meaning 'ruler of the spear.'

How do you pronounce Jerold?

It's said JER-uhld /ˈdʒɛr.əld/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Jerold a boy or girl name?

Jerold is used here as a boy's name.

How popular is Jerold?

Jerold peaked in the early forties and is uncommon now.