Holding steady.
Popularity of Gareld since 1913
Babies named Gareld per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1935, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Gareld's real moment was 1913.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 26 |
| 1920s | 41 |
| 1930s | 73 |
| 1940s | 63 |
| 1950s | 30 |
| 1960s | 10 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Gareld is an exceedingly rare masculine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1913, its peak year, when it was given to fewer than 5 newborns. It has never cracked the top 1000 and has remained stable in obscurity for over a century. The name likely derives from the well-known Gerald or Harold, both Old German compounds meaning 'spear rule' and 'army rule' respectively. Though no states claim Gareld as a regional favorite, its similarity to names like Gerald and Harold gives it a sturdy, vintage feel. As of 2025, it remains a rarely chosen option, appealing to parents drawn to turns-of-the-century rarity.
Gareld is most likely a variant of Gerald, which derives from the Germanic elements 'ger' (spear) and 'wald' (rule). It may also be influenced by Harold, from 'hari' (army) and 'wald' (rule). The name first appeared in the early 20th century but remained rare.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Gary, Gerry
Sibling names for Gareld
Names that share Gareld's style, for a brother or sister.
