What does Perry mean and where does it come from?
Perry is traditionally a surname that has transformed into a given name. Its origins are from the Old English word 'perege' which means 'pear tree'. The transformation into a female first name has occurred more recently, with variations in usage across English-speaking countries. Notable individuals
Cultural significance
Perry has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pear tree.
Peak popularity
Reached #863 in 1883 — currently #1376 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Perry?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Perry?
Perry works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Perry Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Perry Rose
Floral · soft ending
Perry Mae
Sweet · timeless
Perry Claire
French influence · crisp
Perry Jane
Literary · strong
Perry Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Perry right now?
Holding steady — currently #1376 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1376 | 136 | ▼ down 4 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #1372 | 137 | ▼ down 72 · -6% births |
| 2021 | #1300 | 145 | ▲ up 765 · +65% births |
| 2020 | #2065 | 88 | ▲ up 102 · +1% births |
| 2015 | #2167 | 87 | ▲ up 2328 · +172% births |
| 2010 | #4495 | 32 | ▼ down 375 · -6% births |
| 2005 | #4120 | 34 | ▼ down 38 · +13% births |
| 2000 | #4082 | 30 | ▼ down 409 · +3% births |
| 1995 | #3673 | 29 | ▲ up 713 · +32% births |
| 1990 | #4386 | 22 | ▼ down 526 · +5% births |
| 1985 | #3860 | 21 | ▼ down 134 |
| 1980 | #3726 | 21 | ▲ up 876 · +62% births |
| 1975 | #4602 | 13 | ▼ down 1565 · -41% births |
| 1970 | #3037 | 22 | ▼ down 621 · -12% births |
| 1965 | #2416 | 25 | — |
The story of Perry
Perry has been a beloved American name for over 141 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1883. A total of 78,448 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1722 in 1905 to #1376 in 2023. Perry is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
Names that peaked alongside Perry in 1883:
Perry by decade
Perry peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 1,261 | |
| 1890s | 1,009 | |
| 1900s | 1,095 | |
| 1910s | 3,781 | |
| 1920s | 6,068 | |
| 1930s | 5,598 | |
| 1940s | 8,052 | |
| 1950s ★ | 17,360 | |
| 1960s | 15,355 | |
| 1970s | 5,493 | |
| 1980s | 4,821 | |
| 1990s | 3,890 | |
| 2000s | 2,335 | |
| 2010s | 2,096 | |
| 2020s | 234 | |
What are good nicknames for Perry?
What names sound and feel like Perry?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Perry also consider these
Common questions about the name Perry
What does the name Perry mean?
Perry means "pear tree" — 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 Perry?
Perry is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Perry?
Perry 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 Perry?
Perry is a two-syllable name pronounced P EH1 R IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Perry a common or rare name?
Perry is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.