Origin and Meaning of Gaylord

One who is cheerful or merry

Origin: Old French - Derived from the Old French word 'gaillard,' meaning 'cheerful' or 'merry.' It can also be linked to the Old Breton name 'Gaihard,' which carries a similar meaning.

• Gaylord was used as a given name in the Middle Ages, often seen among the nobility in France and England.
• The name has seen usage in various cultures, primarily in English-speaking countries, although it has become less common in recent decades.
• Notable bearers of the name include Gaylord Perry, an accomplished Major League Baseball pitcher, and Gaylord Nelson, a former U.S. Senator known for his role in establishing Earth Day.
• The name Gaylord peaked in popularity in the early to mid-20th century in the United States but has since declined and is now considered somewhat old-fashioned.
• Variations of the name include Gayle and Lord, although these are less commonly recognized as derivatives.