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Harry Boy

Popularity: #614 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationHAIR-ee / /ˈhæri/

English; German; Hebrew

Meaning

English: Army ruler; German: Home ruler; Hebrew: Gift of God

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Harry is derived from the Old High German name "Heimirich," which means "home ruler." This name evolved through various linguistic stages, transitioning to the Old French "Henri" before entering the English language as "Harry." The adoption of Harry into English can be traced back to the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, when many Norman names were introduced into the English lexicon, significantly influencing the naming conventions of the time.

Historically, the name Harry has been borne by several notable figures, most prominently King Henry V of England, who reigned in the early 15th century and is celebrated for his military successes during the Hundred Years' War. The name also appears in literature, notably in Shakespeare's plays, where characters such as Prince Harry (Henry IV) are depicted, further embedding the name in cultural consciousness. The use of Harry as a diminutive of Henry became widespread, particularly in the medieval period, and it has been associated with various English monarchs, including Henry VIII, who ruled in the 16th century.

Culturally, the name Harry has come to symbolize qualities such as leadership and bravery, often associated with the heroic narratives of English history. The name's enduring presence in literature and royal lineage has contributed to its lasting significance. Additionally, the name has been linked to various saints, including Saint Henry, a Holy Roman Emperor canonized in the 12th century, which further enriched its historical and cultural resonance. Overall, the name Harry reflects a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution, historical milestones, and cultural significance that has allowed it to persist through the centuries.

Trend Summary

Harry has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.

Similar Names

HenryHaroldHarrisonHankHalHarrisHugoHarlan

Variants

  • Harold
  • Henry
  • Hal

International Variants

  • Henri (French)
  • Enrique (Spanish)
  • Harry (Dutch)

Famous people named Harry

Harry Potter is a fictional character best known for the Harry Potter book series and film adaptations.

Harry Styles is a singer and actor best known for his work with One Direction, as well as his solo albums Fine Line and Harry's House.

Harry Belafonte is a singer and actor best known for his hit song 'Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)' and his activism.

Harry Connick Jr. is a musician and actor best known for his jazz music and roles in films like Hope Floats and Independence Day: Resurgence.

Harry Dean Stanton is an actor best known for his roles in Paris, Texas, and Repo Man.

Harry Hamlin is an actor best known for his role in L.A. Law and appearances in the reality show The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

Harry McCracken is a journalist best known for his work with PC World and Fast Company.

Harry Reid is a former U.S. President known for his leadership in the Senate and significant legislative achievements.

Harry Anderson is an actor and magician best known for his role in Night Court and his appearances on television magic specials.

Harry Enfield is a comedian and actor best known for his work on Harry Enfield and Chums and Kevin & Perry Go Large.

Fictional characters named Harry

Harry Potter is a fictional character from the book series Harry Potter. He is a young wizard who attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and is known for his role in the fight against the dark wizard Voldemort.

Harry Callahan is a fictional character from the film series Dirty Harry. He is a tough, no-nonsense police inspector known for his unorthodox methods and iconic catchphrase, 'Do you feel lucky?'.

Harry Angel is a fictional character from the novel Falling Angel and its film adaptation Angel Heart. He is a private investigator who becomes embroiled in a dark mystery involving voodoo and the supernatural.

Harry Dresden is a fictional character from the book series The Dresden Files. He is a professional wizard and private investigator who deals with supernatural threats in modern-day Chicago.

Harry Osborn is a fictional character from the Spider-Man comic book series. He is the best friend of Peter Parker and often struggles with his identity and legacy as the son of the Green Goblin.

Sibling Suggestions

JamesOliverGeorgeWilliamThomasEdward

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Harry was first seen in the United States in 1880. Harry has ranked as high as #35 nationally, which occurred in 1918, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Illinois, and California. In the past 5 years the name Harry has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Harry (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 46
17%
NY 35
13%
FL 23
9%
TX 19
7%
MA 13
5%
IL 12
5%
MI 12
5%
GA 10
4%
NC 10
4%
IN 8
3%
PA 8
3%
TN 8
3%
MO 8
3%
VA 8
3%
CT 7
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18802,152
18812,002
18822,232
18832,110
18842,323
18852,198
18862,257
18872,057
18882,759
18892,559
18902,345
18912,132
18922,460
18932,245
18942,189
18952,128
18962,091
18971,879
18982,129
18991,732
19002,272
19011,594
19021,750
19031,647
19041,722
19051,619
19061,631
19071,813
19081,934
19091,924
19101,978
19112,538
19124,624
19135,458
19146,588
19158,470
19168,476
19178,856
19189,896
19198,990
19209,406
19219,731
19229,077
19239,261
19249,115
19258,611
19268,215
19278,019
19287,604
19297,144
19306,848
19316,045
19325,705
19335,134
19345,099
19355,055
19364,930
19374,814
19384,824
19394,661
19404,681
19415,056
19425,629
19435,720
19445,479
19455,648
19466,029
19476,515
19485,945
19495,543
19505,375
19515,304
19524,992
19534,580
19544,354
19554,139
19563,925
19573,806
19583,588
19593,271
19603,022
19612,749
19622,621
19632,495
19642,399
19652,110
19661,993
19671,878
19681,776
19691,626
19701,696
19711,530
19721,334
19731,204
19741,077
19751,074
1976964
1977949
1978912
1979914
1980859
1981835
1982767
1983753
1984728
1985778
1986675
1987711
1988672
1989747
1990626
1991634
1992644
1993567
1994551
1995508
1996482
1997449
1998482
1999460
2000442
2001454
2002438
2003447
2004447
2005459
2006414
2007445
2008381
2009384
2010364
2011324
2012325
2013331
2014337
2015302
2016377
2017401
2018428
2019414
2020345
2021359
2022381
2023323
2024322