Abelard - name meaning, origin

The boy's name Abelard \a-bela-

is of Old German origin, and its meaning is "noble strength". From Adalhard. The name may also ultimately derive from the Hebrew name Abel, and the Spanish form Abelardo may derive from the Spanish word "abeja", meaning "bee". Made famous by the 12th-century French philosopher Pierre Abelard, who fell in love with and seduced his student Heloise. Her uncle and guardian had him emasculated, even though he married Heloise. She became a nun, he became a monk.

Abelard has 6 variant forms: Ab, Abbey, Abby, Abe, Abel and Abelardo.

Abelard is an uncommon first name for men and an equally uncommon last name for both men and women. (1990 U.S. Census)

Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the boy name Abelard. Compare Abelard with its variant forms and related boy names.