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Geraldine Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Geraldine

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name GERALDINE. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Geraldine

Gender

Female

Origin

Christian

Lucky Number

3

Meaning of the Name

Geraldine is the feminine form of Gerald, meaning 'ruler with the spear.' In Christian tradition, this name symbolizes spiritual strength and moral leadership for women.

Stages of a Female

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

3

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Jupiter

Positive Nature

Optimistic, inspirational, and creative.

Negative Traits

Scattered, exaggerating.

Lucky Colours

Yellow, gold, purple.

Lucky Days

Thursday.

Lucky Stones

Yellow sapphire.

Harmony Numbers

1, 2, 9.

Best Suited Professions

Arts, writing, communication.

What People Like About You

Creativity, optimism.

Famous People Named Geraldine

Geraldine Ferraro

Politician

First female vice presidential candidate for a major U.S. political party

Geraldine Page

Actress

Academy Award winner for Best Actress in 'The Trip to Bountiful'

Geraldine Brooks

Author

Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist for 'March'

Geraldine Chaplin

Actress

Internationally acclaimed film actress with over 100 credits

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Geraldine English Géraldine French Geraldina Italian/Spanish Geraldien Dutch Geraldyna Polish Geraldene English variant

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Cultural & Historical Significance

Geraldine holds significant cultural importance as a name that bridges medieval warrior traditions with modern feminine identity. Originating as the feminine form of Gerald, it carries the powerful meaning 'ruler with the spear' from its Germanic roots in 'ger' (spear) and 'wald' (rule). Throughout European history, the name was particularly favored in aristocratic Christian families, where it symbolized both noble heritage and the emerging recognition of female strength and capability. The name gained widespread popularity during the Victorian era, reflecting the period's fascination with medieval romance and chivalric ideals while also accommodating growing aspirations for women's education and social participation.

In the 20th century, Geraldine became emblematic of women's advancing roles in society, culminating in Geraldine Ferraro's historic 1984 vice presidential nomination, which transformed the name into a symbol of political breakthrough for women. The name's Christian associations are strengthened by several saints and religious figures bearing similar names, particularly in Catholic traditions where it represents spiritual warfare and moral leadership. Culturally, Geraldine has maintained a presence in literature, music, and television, often portraying characters who combine traditional warmth with modern competence, reflecting the name's enduring appeal as representing balanced feminine strength.

Extended Personality Analysis

Women named Geraldine are typically associated with a personality that combines strength, reliability, and traditional values with modern capability. They often exhibit natural leadership qualities and a determined approach to life's challenges, reflecting the name's warrior etymology in their mental fortitude and strategic thinking. Geraldines are frequently perceived as principled individuals who approach responsibilities with seriousness and competence, earning respect through their consistent performance and ethical standards. Their strength tends to be expressed through resilience and quiet determination rather than aggression, making them effective problem-solvers who can navigate difficult situations with grace.

Beyond their strong exterior, Geraldines often possess warm, nurturing qualities and maintain deep connections to family and tradition. They typically value stability and loyalty, creating relationships built on trust and mutual respect. Many display excellent organizational skills and a practical approach to life, combined with a thoughtful, analytical mind that helps them make wise decisions. The balance between their inherent strength and their compassionate nature makes Geraldines particularly effective in caregiving roles, education, leadership positions, and any field requiring both empathy and firm judgment. Their personality represents the ideal integration of traditional virtues with contemporary effectiveness.

Modern Usage & Popularity

In contemporary times, Geraldine has transitioned from its peak popularity in the mid-20th century to become a classic, somewhat vintage name that carries connotations of strength and tradition. While its usage for newborns has declined significantly since the 1970s, this has created a distinctive quality that appeals to parents seeking strong, traditional names with historical depth. The name maintains stronger presence in certain regions and communities, particularly among Catholic families and in European countries where traditional names remain valued. Modern Geraldines often appreciate the name's professional sound and the sense of maturity it conveys in workplace settings. Recent years have shown a slight resurgence as part of the vintage name revival trend, with parents drawn to its combination of feminine elegance and underlying strength. The name's association with groundbreaking figures like Geraldine Ferraro continues to give it relevance as a symbol of female achievement and capability.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

Symbolically, Geraldine represents the powerful integration of feminine grace with inner strength and leadership capability. The name's core meaning of 'ruler with the spear' creates rich metaphorical significance, where the spear symbolizes both protection and forward progress, suggesting someone who defends their values while advancing toward meaningful goals. This combination represents the modern ideal of strength expressed through wisdom and compassion rather than force. Geraldine symbolizes the bridge between heritage and progress, honoring traditional values while embracing contemporary opportunities for women. The name carries connotations of reliability, integrity, and enduring strength - qualities that remain constant through changing circumstances. It represents the concept of 'graceful power,' where authority is exercised with sensitivity and leadership is guided by principle. In a broader sense, Geraldine symbolizes the evolution of feminine identity, maintaining connection to historical roots while claiming space in modern spheres of influence and achievement.

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