The name Garth is derived from the Old English word "gearth," which means an enclosed yard or garden. It is believed to have originated in the Anglo-Saxon culture of England, dating back to around the 5th century AD. The name was likely given to children born or living near an enclosed area, such as a farmyard or a walled garden.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Garth can be found in the Domesday Book, a survey of land ownership and taxation in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name appears in various spellings, such as "Gearth" and "Gerth," indicating its widespread use during the Norman period.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Garth. One of the earliest was Garth, the Earl of Merioneth, who lived in the late 12th century and played a significant role in the wars between the Welsh and the English during the reign of King Henry II. Another prominent figure was Garth Callaghan, a Welsh landowner and military commander who fought alongside Owain Glyndŵr in the Welsh Revolt against the English in the early 15th century.

In the realm of literature, the name Garth appears in the works of renowned authors. For instance, Garth Greenfield is a character in Sir Walter Scott's novel "Ivanhoe," published in 1819. This fictional character is depicted as a skilled archer and a loyal follower of the Saxon hero, Cedric.

Moving into more recent times, Garth Brooks (born 1962) is a highly successful American country music singer and songwriter. With numerous hit albums and awards, he is considered one of the best-selling artists of all time in the United States. Another notable figure is Garth Nix (born 1963), an Australian writer of fantasy novels, best known for his "Old Kingdom" series.

These examples illustrate the rich history and diverse cultural influences associated with the name Garth, which has been carried by individuals from various walks of life, ranging from medieval noblemen and military leaders to modern-day writers and musicians.