Tarzan Name Meaning

by

Exploring the Meaning of the Name Tarzan

The Name and Its Meaning

The name Tarzan has fascinated audiences for over a century, primarily due to its association with the iconic literary character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs. In its most basic sense, the name has come to represent a wild, untamed spirit, often attributed to its origins rooted in the jungle and nature. While the character embodies adventure and a connection to the animal kingdom, it’s essential to look beyond that to find deeper meanings.

The name Tarzan is often thought to be derived from the fictional phrase “Tarzan of the Apes.” In the original stories, it can be translated to mean “white skin,” drawing from a fictional language created by Burroughs. However, this name has transcended its simplistic translation, symbolizing freedom, strength, and primal instincts.

From a linguistic perspective, Tarzan does not have standardized Greek or Hebrew origins since it is a creation of the 20th century. Using dictionaries like Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary or other sources, we find that it doesn’t appear as a conventional name but rather as a brand of adventure and exploration. In Wiktionary, Tarzan is often noted as a character archetype rather than just a name, representing someone who overcomes the odds, making the term synonymous with bravery and resilience.

The History of the Name

Tarzan’s first appearance was in the novel “Tarzan of the Apes,” published in 1912, and has since been adapted into countless films, animations, and comic books. Though primarily a male character, the name has been used in various adaptations, and it takes a predominantly masculine form on a global scale. This is likely due to the character’s male-centric adventures in the jungles of Africa. However, some works have played with gender variations, creating female characters inspired by Tarzan, but “Tarzan” remains predominantly associated with masculinity.

While relatively uncommon as a first name for individuals, it has inspired many fans and their offspring to adopt it as a middle name or even a first name in specific cultural contexts. Nowadays, the name Tarzan evokes images of bravery, family, and connection to nature. Throughout time, Tarzan has served as a testament to courage, survival, and exploration, capturing the hearts of many across cultures and societies.

15 Fun Facts About the Name Tarzan

  1. Tarzan first appeared in Edgar Rice Burroughs’ literature in 1912.
  2. The original story has been adapted into over 50 films.
  3. Tarzan was raised by a tribe of apes in the novels.
  4. Tarzan’s character was inspired by a mix of European explorers and wild animals.
  5. Tarzan has become a symbol of the ‘noble savage’ in literature.
  6. The name itself can be associated with courage and resilience.
  7. In Arabic, “Tarzan” could theoretically relate to a variation of “wild” or “free.”
  8. The character has been featured in various comic book series.
  9. Tarzan’s adventures have taken him to lost civilizations and ancient myths.
  10. Tarzan’s loves and friendships create a complex narrative centered around loyalty.
  11. A significant focus in Tarzan stories is the theme of identity and belonging.
  12. The name has inspired modern interpretations in various cultural contexts.
  13. Tarzan is often represented as the ultimate antihero.
  14. Tarzan’s storyline often emphasizes the clash of civilization vs. nature.
  15. His iconic yell is recognized globally as a symbol of strength.
  16. Merchandising from Tarzan stories has generated millions in revenue.

What Name Lists Does Tarzan Rank For?

As a unique and fictional name, Tarzan does not appear in the traditional name rankings like many common names do. It’s not listed in U.S. births, and thus it ranks far lower or not at all compared to other names in databases. Its infrequent use as a traditional name limits its popularity rank in births across countries; however, it remains a beloved character name in popular culture.

10 Notable Persons Named Tarzan

While Tarzan is not a common name for major figures in society, many actors and performers involved in Tarzan adaptations have gained recognition:

  • Johnny Weissmuller: An Olympic swimmer who starred in several Tarzan films.
  • Christopher Lambert: Performed in 1984’s “Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan.”
  • Alexander Skarsgård: Starred in “The Legend of Tarzan,” released in 2016.
  • Neve Campbell: Voiced character Tarzan’s love interest in “Tarzan: The Broadway Musical.”
  • Tarzan (Michael): A character from television who has inspired many kids.
  • Tarzan Dan: A Canadian broadcaster known for his association with the Tarzan name.
  • Tarzan’s Donkey: A comedic entertainment character giving a twist to the Tarzan story also seen in comics.
  • Beneath the Tarzan Films: A pseudonym used by those involved in behind-the-scenes work on Tarzan movies.

Notable Persons With the Last Name Tarzan

The last name “Tarzan” primarily connects with fictional contexts and is very rarely used as a surname in real life. Notable persons are mostly fictional characters rather than real individuals. While fiction has portrayed many characters bearing this name in literature and film, actual people with the last name have not gained significant cultural presence.

How Popular is the Baby Name Tarzan in the U.S.?

Tarzan is not a commonly given name for babies in the U.S., resulting in its absence from various name popularity lists. Its intriguing nature primarily lies in its fictional character rather than being a trending name for infants. In other countries with different cultural interests, the name may also not be notably popular.

Where is the Name Tarzan Popular?

Due to its roots in popular culture, especially surrounding the stories by Edgar Rice Burroughs, the name might have some recognition in regions with significant exposure to his works. Countries that focus extensively on adventure tales, including the U.S. and parts of Europe, are where the allure of the name may sit, driven largely by adaptations prevalent in media. However, it remains an uncommon far beyond a handful of enthusiasts and literature fans.

10 Common Last Names for Tarzan

Given that Tarzan is not typically a surname, common last names tied to exploration or adventure themes are applicable instead. These might include:

  • Adventurer
  • Explorer
  • Jungle
  • Hunter
  • Wild
  • River
  • Forest
  • Venture
  • Cruiser
  • Trailblazer

10 Common First Names for Tarzan

Name pairings with Tarzan are predominantly influenced by the concept of adventure and nature. Common names associated with this theme include:

  • Jungle
  • Leo
  • Hunter
  • Sky
  • Ridge
  • River
  • Rex
  • Aiden
  • Finn
  • Canyon

Conclusion

In summary, the name Tarzan represents more than just a character; it symbolizes adventure, resilience, and a strong connection to nature and the wilderness. While it may not typically find itself in the ranks of conventional first names given to children, its cultural impact through literature and media endures brightly. The character’s journey from literature to film has made Tarzan a household name, evoking themes of identity, belonging, and adventure where human spirit triumphs over adversity. Even as a name chosen by parents today, it invites connotations of strength, wildness, and bravery, inspiring generations. Thus, Tarzan serves as a captivating reminder of the timeless appeal of storytelling and the enduring power of names and how they connect us to deeper meanings, cultural histories, and even fantasies beyond our daily lives.

Also Check:

Prayer Request Form