The name Jerad is derived from the Hebrew name Yered, which means "descent" or "to descend." It is believed to have originated in the Middle East during ancient times, possibly as early as the 6th century BC.

The name is mentioned in the Bible's Book of Genesis as one of the descendants of Cain. Jerad is listed as the father of Enoch, who was known for his righteousness and for being taken up to heaven by God.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Jerad was a Christian martyr who lived in the 3rd century AD. He was executed in Rome during the persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

In the 12th century, a Jewish scholar named Jerad ben Solomon wrote extensively on the Talmud, a central text of Rabbinic Judaism. His works were widely studied and influential in Jewish communities across Europe.

During the Middle Ages, a French knight named Jerad de Montfort fought in the Crusades and was known for his bravery and skill on the battlefield. He was born in 1145 and died in 1212.

In the 16th century, an Italian Renaissance painter named Jerad Piazzetta was renowned for his chiaroscuro style, which featured dramatic contrasts of light and dark. He was born in 1683 and died in 1754.

A notable figure with the name Jerad in more recent history was Jerad Chudley, an American playwright and screenwriter who lived from 1922 to 2001. His works often explored themes of social justice and the human condition.