The name Gustave originated from the Old Norse name Guðlaugr, which is derived from the words "guð" meaning "god" and "laugr" meaning "bright" or "shining." This name was later adapted into the Old French form "Gustave" during the Middle Ages.

The first recorded use of the name Gustave can be traced back to the 10th century in Scandinavian regions. It gained popularity in France during the 12th and 13th centuries, becoming a common name among the French nobility.

One of the earliest notable figures with the name Gustave was Gustave I Vasa, who was the King of Sweden from 1523 to 1560. He played a crucial role in establishing the Swedish nation-state and is considered one of the most influential monarchs in Swedish history.

In the 17th century, the name Gustave was associated with the French philosopher and mathematician René Descartes (1596-1650), whose full name was René Descartes du Perron. His philosophical works, including "Discourse on the Method" and "Meditations on First Philosophy," significantly influenced Western philosophy.

Another prominent figure with the name Gustave was the Swedish king Gustav III (1746-1792), who ruled from 1771 until his assassination in 1792. He was known for his efforts to promote the arts and culture in Sweden, as well as his involvement in the Russo-Swedish War.

In the 19th century, the name Gustave was closely associated with the French novelist and playwright Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880). His masterpiece, "Madame Bovary," is considered one of the greatest novels ever written and a seminal work of literary realism.

The name Gustave was also borne by the German composer Gustav Mahler (1860-1911), renowned for his highly emotional and complex symphonies. His works, such as the "Symphony No. 2" and "Symphony No. 5," continue to be widely performed and admired.