What does Garrett mean and where does it come from?
Garrett is traditionally a male name of Irish origin but has been increasingly used as a feminine name in the United States. The name is derived from the Gaelic name 'Gairbhsach,' which means 'spear strength.' The name has been used since the Middle Ages, and its association with 'gar' (spear) and '
Cultural significance
Garrett has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of spear strength.
Peak popularity
Reached #560 in 2024 — currently #564 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Garrett?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Garrett?
Garrett works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Garrett Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Garrett John
One syllable · timeless choice
Garrett Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Garrett Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Garrett Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Garrett Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Garrett right now?
Holding steady — currently #564 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #564 | 526 | ▼ down 4 · -1% births |
| 2024 | #560 | 530 | ▼ down 77 · -15% births |
| 2023 | #483 | 626 | ▼ down 21 · -6% births |
| 2022 | #462 | 664 | ▼ down 61 · -14% births |
| 2021 | #401 | 774 | ▲ up 16600 · +15380% births |
| 2010 | #17001 | 5 | ▼ down 3973 · -29% births |
| 2005 | #13028 | 7 | ▼ down 3850 · -30% births |
| 2000 | #9178 | 10 | ▼ down 1647 · -9% births |
| 1995 | #7531 | 11 | ▼ down 1383 · -21% births |
| 1990 | #6148 | 14 | ▼ down 2157 · -30% births |
| 1985 | #3991 | 20 | ▲ up 2351 · +100% births |
| 1980 | #6342 | 10 | ▲ up 1697 · +100% births |
| 1970 | #8039 | 5 | — |
The story of Garrett
Garrett is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1969. More than 133,031 babies have been named Garrett since 1969. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8039 in 1970 to #483 in 2023. Garrett is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Garrett in 2024:
Garrett by decade
Garrett peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 128 | |
| 1890s | 210 | |
| 1900s | 172 | |
| 1910s | 544 | |
| 1920s | 786 | |
| 1930s | 726 | |
| 1940s | 1,324 | |
| 1950s | 1,771 | |
| 1960s | 3,098 | |
| 1970s | 6,675 | |
| 1980s | 20,628 | |
| 1990s ★ | 45,458 | |
| 2000s | 36,297 | |
| 2010s | 14,372 | |
| 2020s | 1,898 | |
What are good nicknames for Garrett?
What names sound and feel like Garrett?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Garrett also consider these
Common questions about the name Garrett
What does the name Garrett mean?
Garrett means "Spear strength" — 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 Garrett?
Garrett is currently ranked #483 in the United States 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 Garrett?
Garrett 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 Garrett?
Garrett is a two-syllable name pronounced GAR-it. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Garrett more of a girl or boy name?
Garrett is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.