Barry

“Spear”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#935US 2023

1.3kBirths / yr

→Stable

181.4kAll-time births

📅 Since 193100

How to pronounce Barry

BAHR

/ˈbɑr/ · stress on BAHR · 2 syllables

“Spear”

American origin · Unisex name

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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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

How popular is Barry right now?

Holding steady — currently #935 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1935–2023#935 · Top 0.69%

1935

1940

1945

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1980

1985

1990

2021

2022

2023

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	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Barry

Best Year2023Rank #935

Peak Count1,265

Average Rank#3727

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1935 - 202314 years

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:

Mary Barbara Patricia Linda Carol

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?

ENGLISH

BRITISH(BazBazza

What names sound and feel like Barry?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Barry also consider these

Tarry

American · Earth

Barby

American · From the lady;

Carry

American · A derivative of

Darry

American · English

Karry

American · A beloved name

Garry

American · English

Barri

American · A variation of

Barty

English · Son of the

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.