Gerrie is a unique and uncommon female given name of Dutch origin. It is believed to be a diminutive form of the Dutch name Gerarda, which itself is derived from the Germanic elements "ger" meaning "spear" and "hard" meaning "strong, brave". Therefore, Gerrie can be translated as "little spear", symbolizing strength and bravery.
The name Gerarda was popular among the nobility in the Middle Ages and it is likely that the diminutive form Gerrie emerged during this period. However, it is not a well-documented name and its exact origin and history are difficult to trace.
Today, Gerrie remains a rare name, but it has been used by some families as a way to honor their Dutch heritage or simply to choose an uncommon name for their child. While it may not have the same popularity as more common names like Emma or Charlotte, Gerrie is a distinctive and memorable choice that carries with it a rich history and meaning.
The name Gerrie peaked in popularity between the late 1940s and early 1950s, with a significant number of births occurring during these years. The highest point was reached in 1952 with 26 births. However, there's been a notable decline since then, with fewer than 10 births recorded per year from the mid-1970s onwards.