George
Male nameGreek
✨ Meaning
George comes from the Greek Georgios, built from 'ge,' meaning earth, and 'ergon,' meaning work, so it means farmer or tiller of the soil. It is one of the very few names whose meaning describes ordinary labour rather than nobility, virtue or divine favour, and that plainness is part of its long appeal. The same two Greek elements give English the words geology and energy.
🌍 Origin
Saint George, an early Christian soldier martyr, became patron saint of England, Georgia, Portugal and Catalonia, and his legend of the dragon spread across Europe. Six British kings have borne the name, and it has been continuously used in England since the Hanoverian succession. It returned to the top of British charts after the birth of Prince George in 2013.
📈 Popularity Trend
⭐ Famous People Named George
- George Washington
- George Orwell
- George Eliot
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does George mean?
George means 'farmer' or 'tiller of the soil,' from the Greek 'ge' (earth) and 'ergon' (work).
Why is Saint George important in England?
He became England's patron saint in the medieval period, and the red cross on white associated with him is the English flag.
What are the nicknames for George?
Georgie is the main affectionate form. The name is short enough that most bearers use it in full.