What does Larry mean and where does it come from?
Although traditionally a male name derived from 'Lawrence' meaning 'from Laurentum' (a place name in Italy), 'Larry' has been adapted and used as a female name in some circles. The name derives from the Latin 'Laurentius,' suggesting honor and reminiscent of laurels. Its use for females is rare but
Cultural significance
Larry has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #10 in 1947 — currently #1085 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Larry?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Larry?
Larry works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Larry Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Larry John
One syllable · timeless choice
Larry Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Larry Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Larry Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Larry Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Larry right now?
Declining — down 14 spots — currently #1085 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1085 | 198 | ▼ down 14 · -3% births |
| 2024 | #1071 | 204 | ▼ down 143 · -84% births |
| 2023 | #928 | 1,272 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #933 | 1,252 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #938 | 1,222 | ▼ down 97 · +358% births |
| 2020 | #841 | 267 | ▼ down 282 · -48% births |
| 2015 | #559 | 513 | ▼ down 195 · -37% births |
| 2010 | #364 | 812 | ▼ down 6 · -2% births |
| 2005 | #358 | 828 | ▼ down 78 · -26% births |
| 2000 | #280 | 1,118 | ▼ down 70 · -20% births |
| 1995 | #210 | 1,401 | ▼ down 66 · -36% births |
| 1990 | #144 | 2,194 | ▼ down 48 · -26% births |
| 1985 | #96 | 2,947 | ▼ down 26 · -31% births |
| 1980 | #70 | 4,267 | ▼ down 14 · -20% births |
| 1975 | #56 | 5,311 | — |
The story of Larry
Larry has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #10 in 1947, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 810K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Once ranked #513 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #928 in 2023. Larry is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Larry in 1947:
Larry by decade
Larry peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 150 | |
| 1890s | 299 | |
| 1900s | 634 | |
| 1910s | 2,612 | |
| 1920s | 7,293 | |
| 1930s | 65,488 | |
| 1940s ★ | 256,614 | |
| 1950s | 246,619 | |
| 1960s | 109,186 | |
| 1970s | 58,671 | |
| 1980s | 31,568 | |
| 1990s | 15,997 | |
| 2000s | 9,134 | |
| 2010s | 5,333 | |
| 2020s | 669 | |
What are good nicknames for Larry?
ENGLISH
LarynLaurenLaurenaLaurenciaLaurynLorenLorena
What names sound and feel like Larry?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Larry also consider these
How is Larry written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Larry?
Common questions about the name Larry
What does the name Larry mean?
Larry means "English" — 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 Larry?
Larry is currently ranked #928 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 Larry?
Larry 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 Larry?
Larry is a two-syllable name pronounced LER-ee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Larry a common or rare name?
Larry is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.