Meaning, origin, history
Gary is a boy's name of English origin that has been used for centuries. It is derived from the Old Germanic given name Gerhard, which itself comes from the two elements "ger" meaning "spear" and "hard" meaning "strong, brave". Therefore, Gary means "strong spear".
The name Gary was first used in England during the Middle Ages but it did not become popular until the 20th century. It gained prominence in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, becoming one of the most popular boy's names during that time.
Gary has been associated with several notable figures throughout history, including American actors Gary Cooper and Gary Sinise, as well as Welsh singer Tom Jones whose real name is Sir roger Vivian Haworth but he goes by his stage name Tom Jones. These individuals have helped to further popularize the name Gary over the years.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Gary since 1880
Total births
3,284
Total since 1880
Peak year
1961
93 births
in 1997
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years