Gervase

French

"skilled with a spear"

Gervase Origin and Meaning

The name Gervase is a boy's name.

Gervase is a distinguished masculine name with deep historical roots, deriving from the Germanic element 'ger' meaning 'spear' combined with a second element possibly related to 'vas' meaning 'servant'. This venerable name was introduced to England by the Normans after the conquest of 1066 and was relatively common during the Middle Ages. Saint Gervase, a Christian martyr from Milan, has lent the name religious significance. Though never extremely popular in modern times, Gervase maintains an air of classical elegance and scholarly refinement. The name experienced brief revivals among families interested in historical names, particularly in Britain. Gervase offers a distinctive alternative to more common traditional names, providing both historical depth and a sophisticated sound that works well in contemporary settings.

Famous People Named Gervase

• Gervase Peterson American reality TV personality ("Survivor")
• Gervase Henry Cary Elwes, English operatic tenor
• Gervase Markham English poet
• (William) Gervase Beckett 1st Baronet, British banker and Conservative politician
• Gervase Alan de Peyer English clarinetist and conductor
• Gervase of Tilbury English canon lawyer
• Gervase Helwys Lieutenant of the Tower of London found guilty of murdering Sir Thomas Overbury
• Gervase Babington English bishop

The name Gervase in Pop Culture

• Gervase Piercey ('Softy') character in The Cuckoo in the Nest (1894) by Mrs Margaret Oliphant