Origin and Meaning of Gertrudes

Spear of strength

Origin: German - Derived from the Old High German name 'Gertrud', composed of the elements 'ger' meaning 'spear' and 'trud' meaning 'strength' or 'force'.

• Gertrudes is a traditional name particularly popular in various European countries, especially the German-speaking regions.
• The name has variants in several languages, including Gertrude (English), Gertrudis (Spanish), and Gertie (a diminutive form).
• Notable bearers include Saint Gertrude of Nivelles, a 7th-century abbess considered the patron saint of cats and gardeners.
• While less common today, the name Gertrudes saw peaks in popularity in the early 20th century, especially in the U.S. and various European countries.
• The name has been relatively stable in certain cultures, while in others it has fallen out of favor, often replaced by more contemporary names.