What nationality is the name Gustav?

Question

We have our newest hurricane, Gustav, coming our way, but I was wondering what language is Gustav. I'm thinking it is Spanish, but I don't know for sure. If it is, what is the equivalent in English?

I'm asking this in Seniors because a) it's my favorite category and b) the seniors here are the smartest people I know.

Answer 1

Possibly Swedish or German.  The name means "staff of the gods".  I think the English equivalent would be Gus.

Answer 2

I think it is Russian or German.  Gustavo is spanish.  interesting.  I will follow this to find out.

You are like me.  I ask here!!!

Answer 3

Polish, sorry but not Russian at all.

Answer 4

Russian or German

Answer 5

haha. my parents had an argument about this over breakfast this morning.

anyways. i honestly don't know. my mom says it's probably German, but my dad says it's definitely Spanish.

Answer 6

It's definitely a German name, maybe it can be used in other languages too.

Answer 7

Gustav is actually a Swedish name! It's Spanish form would actually be "Gustavo", and I don't think there's an English equivalent...it's a rare name in the US, but in Sweden it's still in the top 20 boy names. Although, every once in a while you will run into someone named "Gus" and chances are it's short for "Gustav"!  

Answer 8

From behindthename.com

GUSTAV

Gender: Masculine

Usage: Scandinavian, German

Pronounced: GOO-stahf (German)   [key]

Means "staff of the Goths", derived from the Old Norse elements Gautr "Goth" and stafr "staff". This name has been borne by six kings of Sweden, including the 16th-century Gustav I Vasa.

Answer 9

Same as Katrina - GERMAN!   Yes, Gustav is a German name.

CJ

Answer 10

It's a name of Swedish origin which means "Staff of the Goths".  Could also be used in Germany or Eastern Europe.

Answer 11

It's Swedish.  In the U.S. it's often Gus.

Answer 12

it is of old Swedish origin

Answer 13

well, i asked my wife and we're pretty sure that its german because we have a german friend name Gustav but im not so sure about the english way of pronouncing it, hope it helps.

Answer 14

Swedish, Norwegian or German.