Cory is a unisex given name of American origin. It was popularized by the character Cory Matthews from the 1990s sitcom "Boy Meets World," which starred Ben Savage as the titular character. The name's meaning and history, however, predate this television show.
The name Cory is derived from the Gaelic male given name Cormac, which means "chariot of the sea." This name has been used in Irish and Scottish families for centuries and was brought to America by early settlers. It is also related to the Cornish name Cory, which means "from the fort."
In terms of history, the most notable figure associated with the name Cory is Cormac mac Airt, who was a legendary High King of Ireland from the 3rd century AD. According to Irish mythology, Cormac mac Airt was known for his wisdom and just rule.
While the name Cory has traditionally been considered male, it has also been used as a female given name in recent years. This is likely due to its popularity as a unisex name in popular culture, such as with characters like Cory Tippin from the television show "My Name Is Earl."
In conclusion, Cory is a unique and historical given name of American origin that has a rich history dating back centuries. Its meaning, "chariot of the sea," adds to its mystique and intrigue. While it was popularized by modern media, such as "Boy Meets World," its roots lie in ancient Gaelic culture and mythology.
The name Cory saw a significant increase in popularity from the 1970s onwards, reaching its peak in the mid-1980s with over 260 births recorded in 1986. However, since then, there has been a steady decline in its usage as a baby name, with only single-digit numbers of births recorded annually from 2014 to present.