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Walter

Walter is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'wald', meaning 'rule', and 'heri', meaning 'army or warrior'. It signifies 'ruler of the army' and has historically been associated with nobility and leadership. The name was widely adopted across Europe due to historical figures and noble lineages.

IPA: /ˈwɔːltər/ · Simplified: WAL-ter

Male
Germanic
European
Central Europe
Strong
classical
noble
established

40/100

Popularity

Rising

10-Year Trend

5

Countries

2024

Peak Year

Meaning of Walter

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Walter is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'wald', meaning 'rule', and 'heri', meaning 'army or warrior'. It signifies 'ruler of the army' and has historically been associated with nobility and leadership. The name was widely adopted across Europe due to historical figures and noble lineages.

Does Walter flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Walter

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈwɔːltər/ · Simplified: WAL-ter

Nicknames for Walter

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Walt
Wally
Wallie
Waltie

Walter name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

50

Germany

45

United Kingdom

40

United States

35

Sweden

30

Italy

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Walt

Waldemar

Valter

Gauthier

Names like Walter

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Collections featuring Walter

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

The name Walter is often associated with intelligence, leadership, and reliability. Individuals with this name are perceived as strong and dependable, often taking on responsibilities with a sense of calm authority. They are considered thinkers who appreciate tradition and stability.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Walter

Well-known figures who share this name.

W

Walter Scott

Scottish historical novelist, playwright, and poet; 1771-1832

W

Walter Cronkite

Iconic American broadcast journalist; 1916-2009

W

Walter White

Fictional character from the television series Breaking Bad; Modern era

Frequently asked questions about Walter

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Walter mean?
Here is the meaning behind Walter: Walter is of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'wald', meaning 'rule', and 'heri', meaning 'army or warrior'. It signifies 'ruler of the army' and has historically been associated with nobility and leadership. The name was widely adopted across Europe due to historical figures and noble lineages.
Is Walter a boy or girl name?
Walter is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Walter?
Walter scores 40/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2024.
What are good nicknames for Walter?
Popular nicknames for Walter: Walt, Wally, Wallie, Waltie.
What names are similar to Walter?
Names similar to Walter: Wilhelm, Edgar, Leonard, Raymond — close in sound, origin, or style.

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