What does Cory mean and where does it come from?
Cory is a name of English origin, derived from the Old French word 'coriere' meaning hollow. The name has gained popularity as both a masculine and feminine name. As a female name, it saw a rise in the late 20th century. It remains popular in various English-speaking countries. Notable personalities
Cultural significance
Cory has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the hollow.
Peak popularity
Reached #603 in 1978 — currently #1178 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cory?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cory?
Cory works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cory Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cory Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cory Claire
French influence · crisp
Cory Jane
Literary · strong
Cory Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cory right now?
Declining — down 34 spots — currently #1178 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1178 | 174 | ▼ down 34 · -4% births |
| 2022 | #1144 | 182 | ▼ down 153 · -18% births |
| 2021 | #991 | 221 | ▲ up 7967 · +1909% births |
| 2020 | #8958 | 11 | ▲ up 592 |
| 2015 | #9550 | 11 | ▼ down 2596 · -39% births |
| 2010 | #6954 | 18 | ▼ down 376 |
| 2005 | #6578 | 18 | ▼ down 2897 · -49% births |
| 2000 | #3681 | 35 | ▼ down 2147 · -65% births |
| 1995 | #1534 | 100 | ▼ down 562 · -48% births |
| 1990 | #972 | 192 | ▼ down 101 · +4% births |
| 1985 | #871 | 184 | ▼ down 100 · -14% births |
| 1980 | #771 | 214 | ▼ down 94 · -4% births |
| 1975 | #677 | 222 | ▲ up 460 · +116% births |
| 1970 | #1137 | 103 | ▲ up 647 · +151% births |
| 1965 | #1784 | 41 | — |
The story of Cory
Cory entered American naming records in 1932 and has been in use for over 92 years. More than 132,744 babies have been named Cory since 1932. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3611 in 1945 to #1178 in 2023. Cory is used for both genders: 5% female and 95% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cory in 1978:
Cory by decade
Cory peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 7 | |
| 1930s | 10 | |
| 1940s | 225 | |
| 1950s | 1,966 | |
| 1960s | 6,512 | |
| 1970s | 29,462 | |
| 1980s ★ | 46,429 | |
| 1990s | 35,279 | |
| 2000s | 9,132 | |
| 2010s | 3,468 | |
| 2020s | 254 | |
What are good nicknames for Cory?
What names sound and feel like Cory?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cory also consider these
Common questions about the name Cory
What does the name Cory mean?
Cory means "From the hollow" — a name rooted in English 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 Cory?
Cory is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Cory?
Cory originates from English tradition. English 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 Cory?
Cory is a two-syllable name pronounced K AO1 R IY2. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cory a common or rare name?
Cory is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.