Godfrid

Godfrid is a masculine given name of Germanic origin. It is formed from elements that are commonly interpreted as meaning “god” or “good” and “peace” or “protection,” and it has numerous variant spellings, including Godefrid, Gottfrid, Gottfried, and Godfrey. The name was used across Germanic-speaking regions in medieval Europe and appears in Latinized forms in historical sources such as Godefridus or Godfridus.

In medieval history, the most notable bearer is Godfrid, Duke of Frisia (c. 9th century). A Viking leader who came to rule Frisian territories, he led raiding actions against East Francia and other realms during the late 9th century. Contemporary and later chronicles refer to him under various Latinized spellings, and his death occurred in the late 9th century (often dated around 885) after conflict with Carolingian rulers. His career illustrates the blending of Norse, Frisian, and Frankish political spheres during that period.

Beyond this period, the name evolved into several distinct forms in different languages, influencing modern equivalents such as Godfrey in English and Gottfried in German. While Godfrid itself is uncommon in contemporary use, its linguistic descendants remain widely recognized in given-name traditions and genealogical records.

See also: Godfrey, Gottfried, Godefrid, Godefridus.