Walter
Walter first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1918, when 13,338 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 1,381.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Walter popular?
Rising Walter has climbed over the past decade, given to more boys now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 7,725 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 10,607 | |
| 2000s | 8,133 | |
| 1990s | 12,020 | |
| 1980s | 17,568 | |
| 1970s | 25,726 | |
| 1960s | 45,929 | |
| 1950s | 72,197 | |
| 1940s | 83,728 | |
| 1930s | 80,908 | |
| 1920s | 119,809 | |
| 1910s | 89,145 | |
| 1900s | 19,997 | |
| 1890s | 19,495 | |
| 1880s | 18,185 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Walter mean?
From Germanic 'wald' (rule, power) and 'heri' (army), giving 'ruler/commander of the army'. Brought to England by the Normans.
Nicknames for Walter
- Walt
- Wally
Variants & spellings
- Walther
- Gualtiero
Names like Walter
germanic names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Walter
Popular germanic names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Walter
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Walter mean?
Walter means Army ruler. From Germanic 'wald' (rule, power) and 'heri' (army), giving 'ruler/commander of the army'. Brought to England by the Normans.
What is the origin of the name Walter?
Walter is of germanic origin.
How do you pronounce Walter?
Walter is pronounced “WAWL-ter.”
Is Walter a boy or a girl name?
Walter is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Walter a popular name right now?
Walter has climbed over the past decade, given to more boys now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Walter?
In 2025, Walter ranked #252 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Walter most popular?
Walter was most popular in 1918, when about 13,338 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Walter?
Common nicknames for Walter include Walt, Wally.
What names are similar to Walter?
Names similar to Walter include Henry, Louis, Bernard, Herman, Reginald.
What names go well with Walter?
germanic names that pair well with Walter include Robert, William, Charles, Emma, Amelia.