What does Barry mean and where does it come from?
Barry is predominantly a male name of Irish origin, yet it has been adapted as a female name in contemporary contexts, especially in the United States. The traditional meaning relates to a spear or fair-haired, while in Hebrew contexts, it can also mean 'son of the land.' The name has gained popular
Cultural significance
Barry has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of spear.
Peak popularity
Reached #1851 in 1943 — currently #935 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Barry?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Barry?
Barry works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Barry Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Barry Rose
Floral · soft ending
Barry Mae
Sweet · timeless
Barry Claire
French influence · crisp
Barry Jane
Literary · strong
Barry Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Barry right now?
Holding steady — currently #935 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #935 | 1,265 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #940 | 1,245 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #945 | 1,215 | ▲ up 12079 · +24200% births |
| 1990 | #13024 | 5 | ▼ down 6042 · -44% births |
| 1985 | #6982 | 9 | ▼ down 1718 · -31% births |
| 1980 | #5264 | 13 | ▼ down 1205 · -7% births |
| 1970 | #4059 | 14 | ▼ down 999 · -18% births |
| 1965 | #3060 | 17 | ▼ down 736 · -35% births |
| 1960 | #2324 | 26 | ▲ up 249 · +37% births |
| 1955 | #2573 | 19 | ▲ up 103 · +27% births |
| 1950 | #2676 | 15 | ▼ down 312 · +7% births |
| 1945 | #2364 | 14 | ▲ up 1195 · +100% births |
| 1940 | #3559 | 7 | ▼ down 85 |
| 1935 | #3474 | 7 | — |
The story of Barry
Barry entered American naming records in 1931 and has been in use for over 93 years. More than 181,414 babies have been named Barry since 1931. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3474 in 1935 to #935 in 2023. Barry is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Barry in 1943:
Barry by decade
Barry peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 28 | |
| 1890s | 38 | |
| 1900s | 72 | |
| 1910s | 244 | |
| 1920s | 742 | |
| 1930s | 6,669 | |
| 1940s | 36,327 | |
| 1950s ★ | 54,984 | |
| 1960s | 47,428 | |
| 1970s | 17,360 | |
| 1980s | 10,008 | |
| 1990s | 4,235 | |
| 2000s | 1,827 | |
| 2010s | 1,320 | |
| 2020s | 132 | |
What are good nicknames for Barry?
What names sound and feel like Barry?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Barry also consider these
How is Barry written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Barry
What does the name Barry mean?
Barry means "Spear" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Barry?
Barry is currently ranked #935 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Barry?
Barry originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Barry?
Barry is a two-syllable name pronounced B AA1 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Barry a common or rare name?
Barry is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.