Geraint

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈɡɛr.eɪnt/

Geraint: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man". It derives from the Greek word "gérōn > GERONTIUS".

In Greek tradition, Geraint holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Greek culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Geraint

Quick facts about Geraint
OriginGreek
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

gérōn > GERONTIUS

How to Pronounce Geraint

Geraint is pronounced /ˈɡɛr.eɪnt/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Ger-aint
  2. Say it like: "GER-AINT"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Geraint is predominantly used in welsh speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

welsh
Frequently Asked Questions About Geraint
What does the name Geraint mean?
Geraint means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius.". The name comes from gérōn > GERONTIUS. In its original form, the name derives from gérōn (γέρων). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Geraint for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Geraint's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like WELSH MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Geraint?
Geraint is a greek name. The name traces back to gérōn > GERONTIUS. The original form gérōn (γέρων) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to welsh naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Geraint a boy or girl name?
Geraint is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In greek tradition, Geraint has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Geraint?
Geraint is pronounced "/ˈɡɛr.eɪnt/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Geraint is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Geraint can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root gérōn > GERONTIUS influences how Geraint sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Geraint?
Geraint is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Geraint offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Geraint's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Geraint holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Geraint commonly used?
Geraint is used primarily in welsh naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Geraint found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Geraint into their naming traditions. A child named Geraint will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Geraint is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Geraint?
Geraint carries associations with WELSH MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek, via Latin “géro̱n (γέρων) > Gerontius,” meaning “old man.” 1) Gerontius († 411) was a general of the Western Roman Empire, who first supported the usurper Constantine III and later opposed him in favor of another usurper, Maximus of Hispania. 2) Geraint is a character from Welsh folklore and Arthurian legend, a king of Dumnonia and a brave warrior. He may have lived during or shortly before the reign of the historical Arthur, but some scholars doubt he ever existed. Geraint is probably a Welsh form of the Latin Gerontius." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Geraint originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Geraint sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Geraint often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In welsh communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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