All about the name

Harry

Female

« Harry is an English given name of Old German origin, meaning "home ruler," popularized by historical figures like King Henry VIII and made iconic by Harry Potter. »

#4568 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Harry is a popular given name of English origin, derived from the Old German name Henry, which means "home ruler." The name has been used by several historical figures, including King Henry VIII of England and Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. The name Harry has been in use for centuries and gained popularity during the Middle Ages when it was associated with various European monarchs. In the English-speaking world, the name was further popularized by figures such as Harry Houdini, a famous magician and escape artist, and Harry Potter, the fictional character created by J.K. Rowling. Harry is often considered to be a strong and robust name due to its association with powerful historical figures. However, it also has a certain charm and warmth that makes it appealing for parents looking for a traditional yet approachable name for their child. In terms of popularity, Harry has consistently ranked as one of the top boys' names in many English-speaking countries over the past few decades. It was particularly popular during the 1920s and 1930s but has seen a resurgence in recent years due to its association with Harry Potter. Overall, Harry is a classic and timeless name that carries a rich history and strong meaning behind it. Its popularity across different cultures and generations speaks to its enduring appeal as a boys' name.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Harry since 1880

Total births
2,017
Total since 1880
Peak year
1928
60 births
in 1988
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years