Geraldine

Geraldine is a feminine given name of Germanic origin. It derives from the elements ger, meaning spear, and wald, meaning ruler, making it essentially the feminine form of Gerald. The name has been used in English-speaking countries since the 19th century and appears in various spellings such as Geraldene. It has produced several familiar nicknames, including Gerry and Geri.

Notable people with the name include Geraldine Ferraro (1935–2011), an American politician who was the first female vice presidential candidate representing a major U.S. party in 1984. Geraldine Page (1924–1987) was an American actress and Academy Award winner. Geraldine Chaplin (born 1944) is an American-born actress and filmmaker, the daughter of Charlie Chaplin. Geraldine Brooks (born 1955) is an Australian-born American author who won the Pulitzer Prize for March (2006). Geraldine Roman (born 1971) is a Filipino politician and journalist, the first openly transgender member of the Philippine House of Representatives.

Geographically, several places bear the name. Notable examples include Geraldine, Alabama, in the United States, and Geraldine, a town in Canterbury, New Zealand.

Today the name remains in use but is less common for newborns in some regions, while continuing to appear in literature, media, and culture. Its longevity reflects a traditional, classic style that has persisted across generations.