Tiger

Tiger is an English first name derived from the name of the large striped cat, the tiger. The word ultimately traces back via Old French and Latin to Greek τίγρις (tigris), of Iranian origin. As a given name, Tiger is rare but has gained some recognition in modern times, particularly due to the prominence of the American golfer Tiger Woods (born 1975).

Etymology and Origin

The name Tiger comes directly from the animal name. The Greek τίγρις is thought to be borrowed from an Iranian language, possibly from Old Persian *tigrā, meaning 'arrow', perhaps referencing the animal's speed. The Latin tigris passed into Old French as tigre, and then into English. As a personal name, Tiger is a modern invention, likely influenced by the animal's symbolic associations of strength, ferocity, and independence.

Notable Bearers

The most famous bearer is Tiger Woods (Eldrick Tont Woods, born 1975), an American professional golfer who has won numerous major championships and is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time. His nickname was given by his father, inspired by a Vietnamese friend named Tiger. Other notable real-life bearers include Tiger Shroff (born 1990), an Indian actor and martial artist, and Tiger Jeet Singh (born 1944), an Indian-Canadian professional wrestler. In fiction, the name appears in characters such as Tiger Lily from J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan.

Cultural Significance

In Western culture, the tiger symbolizes power, agility, and courage. As a first name, Tiger projects authority and a bold personality. It has been used sparingly, with a greater presence in popular culture and sports than in everyday usage. Since Tiger Woods rose to fame, the name has been used as both a given name and a nickname more frequently.

Related Names

A variant is Tigger, used in literature for the exuberant character from A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh series.

• Meaning: Tiger (animal)
• Origin: English, via Greek and Iranian
• Type: Given name (masculine)
• Usage: English