Declining since 1989, #7,679 for boys today.
Popularity of Godfrey since 1880
Babies named Godfrey per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1918, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Godfrey's real moment was 1888.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 84 |
| 1890s | 79 |
| 1900s | 85 |
| 1910s | 395 |
| 1920s | 468 |
| 1930s | 299 |
| 1940s | 369 |
| 1950s | 372 |
| 1960s | 269 |
| 1970s | 209 |
| 1980s | 196 |
| 1990s | 166 |
| 2000s | 86 |
| 2010s | 107 |
| 2020s | 61 |
Meaning & origin
Godfrey is a historic name with a strong medieval pedigree, derived from Germanic roots meaning 'God's peace'. It was popular among Norman nobility and Crusaders, but its usage in the United States has declined steadily since its peak in 1888. In 2025, it ranked 7,679th, with only about 1 in 170,808 newborn boys receiving the name. This trajectory reflects a broader shift away from vintage Germanic names in favor of more modern or trendy options. Despite its rarity today, Godfrey carries a distinguished, old-world sensibility that may appeal to parents seeking a name with history and a clear, confident sound.
Godfrey derives from the Old Germanic elements 'god' meaning 'god' and 'frid' meaning 'peace', thus 'God's peace'. It was introduced to England by the Normans after the Conquest, where it replaced the Old English cognate Godfriþ. The name was common among medieval nobility, notably borne by Godfrey of Bouillon, a leader of the First Crusade. It saw peak usage in the late 19th century but has since declined.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: God, Fred, Freddie
Sibling names for Godfrey
Names that share Godfrey's style, for a brother or sister.
