What does Gregory mean and where does it come from?
While traditionally a male name derived from the Greek name Γρηγόριος (Grēgórios), meaning 'watchful' or 'vigilant', variations of the name Gregory can also be used for females. It has been popular in various cultures, and its feminine counterpart, Georgina, has been embraced by some. The name has h
Cultural significance
Gregory has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of vigilant, watchful.
Peak popularity
Reached #21 in 1962 — currently #529 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Gregory?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Gregory?
Gregory works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gregory Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Gregory Rose
Floral · soft ending
Gregory Mae
Sweet · timeless
Gregory Claire
French influence · crisp
Gregory Jane
Literary · strong
Gregory Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Gregory right now?
Declining — down 34 spots — currently #529 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #529 | 556 | ▼ down 34 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #495 | 616 | ▼ down 9 · +1% births |
| 2021 | #486 | 607 | ▼ down 53 · -10% births |
| 2020 | #433 | 678 | ▼ down 87 · -31% births |
| 2015 | #346 | 983 | ▼ down 78 · -24% births |
| 2010 | #268 | 1,286 | ▼ down 66 · -32% births |
| 2005 | #202 | 1,901 | ▼ down 64 · -33% births |
| 2000 | #138 | 2,838 | ▼ down 54 · -36% births |
| 1995 | #84 | 4,442 | ▼ down 33 · -47% births |
| 1990 | #51 | 8,376 | ▼ down 6 · -14% births |
| 1985 | #45 | 9,771 | ▼ down 3 · +5% births |
| 1980 | #42 | 9,269 | ▼ down 9 · -11% births |
| 1975 | #33 | 10,402 | ▼ down 7 · -36% births |
| 1970 | #26 | 16,291 | ▼ down 3 · -11% births |
| 1965 | #23 | 18,206 | — |
The story of Gregory
Gregory has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #21 in 1962. Over 712K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #974 in 1880 to #529 in 2023. Gregory is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Gregory in 1962:
Gregory by decade
Gregory peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 39 | |
| 1890s | 92 | |
| 1900s | 166 | |
| 1910s | 1,093 | |
| 1920s | 2,200 | |
| 1930s | 3,787 | |
| 1940s | 43,312 | |
| 1950s | 178,890 | |
| 1960s ★ | 188,321 | |
| 1970s | 116,290 | |
| 1980s | 94,291 | |
| 1990s | 52,207 | |
| 2000s | 20,085 | |
| 2010s | 10,440 | |
| 2020s | 678 | |
What are good nicknames for Gregory?
What names sound and feel like Gregory?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gregory also consider these
How is Gregory written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Gregory
What does the name Gregory mean?
Gregory means "Vigilant, Watchful" — 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 Gregory?
Gregory is currently ranked #529 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 Gregory?
Gregory 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 Gregory?
Gregory is a three-syllable name pronounced G R EH1 G ER0 IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Gregory?
Gregory pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.