Edgar

Wealthy spearman — a boy name of Old English origin

GenderBoy
MeaningWealthy spearman
PronunciationED-gar

Popularity of Edgar in the United States

#486Rank in 2025
617Births in 2025
#51 in 1881Peak Popularity
↓ Declining10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Edgar

Edgar derives from the Old English elements "ead" (wealth, fortune, prosperity) and "gar" (spear), together meaning "wealthy spearman" or "fortunate with a spear." The name was borne by Edgar the Peaceful, a tenth-century King of the English credited with consolidating the kingdom, and it remained in steady use through the medieval period before fading for centuries. A literary revival through figures like Edgar Allan Poe kept it alive, and it has recently returned to favor among parents drawn to vintage, old-world names.

Edgar Around the World

Edgar is used in 4 languages worldwide, with 6+ international variants.

Languages
FrenchPolishEnglishDutch
Details

TypeMale given name

International Variants
EdgardoItalian
EdgarsLatvian
Edgarus
Édgar
Edgár
OtgerGerman

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Edgar

EdEddieGar

Famous People Named Edgar

  • Edgar Allan Poe — American writer and poet
  • Edgar Degas — French Impressionist painter
  • Edgar Rice Burroughs — American author, creator of Tarzan

Sibling Name Ideas for Edgar

Looking for names that pair well with Edgar? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Edgar mean?

Edgar is a boy name of Old English origin meaning "Wealthy spearman." Edgar derives from the Old English elements "ead" (wealth, fortune, prosperity) and "gar" (spear), together meaning "wealthy spearman" or "fortunate with a spear." The name was borne by Edgar the Peaceful, a tenth-century King of the English credited with consolidating the kingdom, and it remained in steady use through the medieval period before fading for centuries.

How do you pronounce Edgar?

Edgar is pronounced ED-gar. Common variations include Edgardo, Edger, Eadgar.

Is Edgar a boy name?

Yes, Edgar is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Ed, Eddie, Gar.

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