Meaning, origin, history
Perrin is a given name of French origin, derived from the old Germanic personal name 'Ferran', which means "traveler". It is believed to have evolved from the Frankish name 'Farro', meaning "iron", and was likely influenced by the Latin word 'ferreus', also meaning "iron".
The name Perrin was popular in France during the Middle Ages, often appearing in medieval French literature. It was commonly used among the nobility and was associated with several historical figures. For instance, there was a famous French knight named Perin d'Agenais who fought alongside Richard I of England during the Crusades.
Over time, the name Perrin has become less common in France but remains popular as a given name throughout Europe. It is also used as a surname in France and other Francophone countries. Today, Perrin is considered a unisex name, although it is more commonly given to boys.
In literature and popular culture, there are several notable characters named Perrin. Perhaps the most famous is Perrin Aybara, a main character in the fantasy series "The Wheel of Time" by American author Robert Jordan. This has likely contributed to the renewed popularity of the name in recent years.
Overall, Perrin is a unique and historic name with roots in medieval France. Its meaning, "traveler", makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Perrin since 1880
Total births
1,516
Total since 1880
Peak year
2007
47 births
in 2023
36
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+17%
↗
vs previous 5 years