Rupert is an English and German given name, a variant form of Robert, from the Old German variant Hrodperht. The Old High German form of the name evolved from the elements hrothi "fame, glory" and berht "bright", thus carrying the meaning "fame bright". It was borne by two early saints: the 7th-century Saint Rupert of Salzburg, a Frankish bishop and missionary who founded the city of Salzburg, and the 8th-century Saint Rupert of Bingen, a noblewoman venerated in Germany. The name gained prominence in England through the royalist commander Prince Rupert of the Rhine (1619–1682), a nephew of King Charles I, who introduced it to the British Isles. In the 17th century, the name became associated with the English Civil War, where Prince Rupert led Royalist forces. Its usage then spread to other English-speaking regions. In the German context, the variant Ruprecht is more common, particularly known as the companion of Saint Nicholas in Christmas tradition. In modern times, one of the most famous bearers is the Australian-American media tycoon Rupert Murdoch (born 1931), founder of News Corporation. Other notable figures include English poet Rupert Brooke (1887–1915), known for his war sonnets; American Survivor contestant Rupert Boneham (born 1964); Australian painter Rupert Bunny (1864–1947); and British peer Rupert Carington. As a personal name, Rupert is comparatively uncommon in the United States but has maintained steady use in the United Kingdom and Australia. It shares its roots with a wide family of related forms in other languages. Meaning: "fame bright" Origin: Old High German (Hrodperht) Type: First name Usage regions: English, German