Meaning and Origin of the Name Garth

The name Garth originated in Scandinavia as a boy’s name. Garth has many variations, including Garrett and Jarratt.

Garth was used as a surname going back to the 11th and 12th century through the 19th century when the Saxons dominated England. During the time King Arthur led the Knights of the Round Table in the 12th century, some people were using Garth as a given name. 

Meaning of Garth

The Welsh meaning of Garth is gentle, enclosure, and watchful. A garth is a small piece of ground at a dwelling or house. Garth is also related to a mountain ride as in the case of Gwaelod y Garth in the village north of Cardiff.

Popularity of Garth

The name Garth became popular in Wales during the 1910s because of Florence Barclay’s 1909 novel. The Rosary featured, romantic figure, Garth Dalmain. The name Garth fell in popularity in the 1950s. Garth was extremely popular in 1996 and plummeted after 2000. 

Famous People with the Name Garth

Garth Jennings

Garth Jennings is a British film actor and screenwriter born in 1972 in Epping Essex, England. Jennings is best known for The Hitchikers Guide to the Galaxy. 

Garth Hill

Garth Hill is known as Garth Mountain. The hill is located near the Village of Pentrych in Cardiff. 

Gareth

Gareth is a variation of Garth. Gareth became popular the 1950s, replacing Garth.

Useful Resources

Discover the meaning and popularity of other Welsh boys names.