Kerri is a female given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname Kerry, which is itself derived from the county of Kerry in Ireland. The county's name comes from the Old Gaelic word "Ciarraige," which means "the people of Ciar." Ciar was a legendary king of Munster who was believed to have lived in the 2nd century AD.
The name Kerri has been used as a given name since the mid-20th century. It gained popularity in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia during the 1960s and 1970s. Today, it is still considered a popular choice for parents looking for an Irish-inspired name for their daughters.
In addition to its Irish origins, Kerri has also been associated with other cultures and languages. In some cases, it may be used as a diminutive form of the Greek name Keras, which means "spear." However, this usage is less common than the Irish derivation.
Overall, Kerri is a unique and distinctive name that carries a strong connection to its Irish roots. Its meaning adds an additional layer of depth and significance to the name, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a name with history and character.
"Kerri's popularity as a baby girl name saw a significant rise from the late 1940s to its peak in the mid-1970s, with over 1500 births annually between 1971 and 1977. However, it experienced a steady decline thereafter, dropping below 100 births per year by 2003, and averaging around 20-30 births annually since then."