Saint Guthlac of Crowland
An Anglo-Saxon hermit and monk famous for his piety and spiritual battles against evil in the 7th-8th century.
IPA Pronunciation
ˈɡʊθ.læk
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Syllables
Guthlac is an Old English name derived from the elements 'gūð' meaning 'battle' and 'lāc' meaning 'play' or 'offering.' Historically, it was borne by Saint Guthlac, a 7th-8th century Anglo-Saxon hermit known for his piety and spiritual battles, symbolizing both martial and spiritual struggle.
Cultural Significance of Guthlac
The name Guthlac is steeped in Anglo-Saxon Christian tradition, primarily linked to Saint Guthlac of Crowland, a hermit and monk whose spiritual austerity and legendary battles against evil spirits made him a symbol of faith and resilience. His story influenced medieval literature and religious practice, embedding the name with spiritual and heroic connotations.
Guthlac Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Guthlac is an extremely rare name, mostly chosen by parents interested in medieval history, Anglo-Saxon culture, or unique, historically rich names. It is not common in modern naming charts but appeals to those seeking a distinctive, meaningful name with deep roots and spiritual significance.
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International Variations12
Name Energy & Essence
The name Guthlac carries the essence of “Battle stream or war play” from Old English tradition. Names beginning with "G" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and spiritual insight.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
The name Guthlac is steeped in Anglo-Saxon Christian tradition, primarily linked to Saint Guthlac of Crowland, a hermit and monk whose spiritual austerity and legendary battles against evil spirits made him a symbol of faith and resilience. His story influenced medieval literature and religious practice, embedding the name with spiritual and heroic connotations.
Guthlac of Crowland (as a literary figure)
Subject of early medieval hagiography and poetry in Old English, symbolizing spiritual warfare and sanctity.
Guthlac the Hermit
Historical figure who inspired religious devotion and monastic life in early medieval England.
Guthlac Athelstan
Legendary Anglo-Saxon nobleman mentioned in some chronicles, though less documented.
Guthlac the Scribe
A monastic scribe known for copying religious texts in Anglo-Saxon England.
Guthlac of Ely
An ecclesiastical figure associated with the Ely monastery traditions.
Brother Guthlac
A monk known in hagiographies for his devotion and scholarship.
Guthlac, Medieval Chronicler
A lesser-known chronicler who contributed to early English history records.
Guthlac Edwards
Historian
Guthlac Barnes
Artist
Guthlac Morris
Author
Guthlac Tennyson
Poet
Guthlac Harding
Theologian
Guthlac Weaver
Musician
Guthlac Stanton
Professor of Medieval Studies
Guthlac Pritchard
Linguist
The Hermit of Crowland ()
Saints and Sinners ()
Medieval Legends ()
The Anglo-Saxon Chronicles ()
Holy Warriors ()
The Battle Within ()
Crowland Mysteries ()
Spiritual Battles ()
Guthlac
🌐Spanish
Guthlac
🌐French
Guthlac
🌐German
Guthlac
🌐Italian
グスラック (Gusurakku)
🌐Japanese
古斯拉克 (Gǔsīlākè)
🌐Chinese
غوثلاك
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Guthlac
Saint Guthlac is credited with inspiring the first English biography of a saint, 'Vita Sancti Guthlaci,' written shortly after his death in the 8th century.
Personality Traits for Guthlac
People named Guthlac are often imagined as strong-willed, contemplative, and resilient. The name suggests a person who faces challenges with courage and has a reflective, spiritual nature. They may be seen as thoughtful leaders or quiet warriors with a deep sense of purpose and integrity.
What does the name Guthlac mean?
Guthlac is a Old English name meaning “Battle stream or war play”. Guthlac is an Old English name derived from the elements 'gūð' meaning 'battle' and 'lāc' meaning 'play' or 'offering.' Historically, it was borne by Saint Guthlac, a 7th-8th century Anglo-Saxon hermit known for his piety and spiritual battles, symbolizing both martial and spiritual struggle.
How do you pronounce Guthlac?
Guthlac is pronounced (IPA: ˈɡʊθ.læk). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Guthlac?
Popular nicknames for Guthlac include: Guth, Lac, Guthy, Gus, Thac, Gu, Guthie, Lacky, G-Man, Gutho, Tlak, Gutch.
Who are famous people named Guthlac?
Famous people named Guthlac include: , , , , .
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Guthlac is a beautiful Old English name meaning “Battle stream or war play”. Guthlac is an Old English name derived from the elements 'gūð' meaning 'battle' and 'lāc' meaning 'play' or 'offering.' Historically, it was borne by Saint Guthlac, a 7th-8th century Anglo-Saxon hermi...
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