What does Teri mean and where does it come from?
Teri is typically considered a diminutive or variant of the name Teresa or Terese, which has different interpretations. The name gained popularity in the mid-20th century in English-speaking regions, particularly in the United States. It is often associated with positive attributes such as warmth an
Cultural significance
Teri has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of late summer.
Peak popularity
Reached #172 in 1960 — currently #13071 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Teri?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Teri?
Teri works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Teri Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Teri Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Teri Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Teri Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Teri Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Teri Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Teri right now?
Falling — down 2038 spots — currently #13071 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #13071 | 7 | ▼ down 2038 · -22% births |
| 2024 | #11033 | 9 | ▼ down 10509 · -99% births |
| 2023 | #524 | 1,676 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #529 | 1,656 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #534 | 1,626 | ▲ up 7511 · +11514% births |
| 2015 | #8045 | 14 | ▼ down 784 · -18% births |
| 2010 | #7261 | 17 | ▼ down 3433 · -55% births |
| 2005 | #3828 | 38 | ▼ down 1565 · -45% births |
| 2000 | #2263 | 69 | ▼ down 747 · -33% births |
| 1995 | #1516 | 103 | ▼ down 679 · -56% births |
| 1990 | #837 | 235 | ▼ down 301 · -37% births |
| 1985 | #536 | 372 | ▼ down 103 · -26% births |
| 1980 | #433 | 500 | ▼ down 118 · -31% births |
| 1975 | #315 | 723 | ▼ down 41 · -33% births |
| 1970 | #274 | 1,075 | — |
The story of Teri
Teri entered American naming records in 1920 and has been in use for over 104 years. A total of 44,132 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4395 in 1920 to #524 in 2023. Teri is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Teri in 1960:
Teri by decade
Teri peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s | 17 | |
| 1930s | 62 | |
| 1940s | 1,624 | |
| 1950s | 11,899 | |
| 1960s ★ | 16,823 | |
| 1970s | 7,893 | |
| 1980s | 3,982 | |
| 1990s | 1,283 | |
| 2000s | 426 | |
| 2010s | 123 | |
| 2020s | 16 | |
What are good nicknames for Teri?
What names sound and feel like Teri?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Teri also consider these
How is Teri written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Teri?
Common questions about the name Teri
What does the name Teri mean?
Teri means "late summer" — 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 Teri?
Teri is currently ranked #524 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 Teri?
Teri 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.
Is Teri more of a girl or boy name?
Teri is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What personality traits are associated with the name Teri?
Studies on name perception suggest that Teri is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.