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Origin and meaning of the name Perry

What is the origin of the name Perry?

The origin of the first name "Perry" is English. It is derived from the Old English surname "Perry" or "Perrie," which itself was derived from the given name "Peter." The name "Perry" means "rock" or "stone" and was originally used as a surname to indicate someone who lived near a stone or quarry. Over time, "Perry" began to be used as a given name as well.

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The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Perry

The name Perry is of English origin, derived from the surname "Perry" which was originally a nickname. It is an occupational surname derived from the Old English word "pirige" meaning "pear tree." The name Perry was initially used to denote someone who lived near or worked with pear trees. Over time, the surname transitioned into a first name, gaining popularity in the English-speaking world. The meaning of the name Perry is often associated with the traits of those who bear it. Individuals with this name tend to be creative, independent, and versatile. They possess a strong sense of self and are known for their ability to adapt to various situations. Perry is also sometimes considered a shortened form of the name Peter, which means "rock" or "stone" in Greek, giving the name an alternative meaning related to strength and stability. Perry has become a unisex name in recent years, appealing to both males and females. Notable bearers of the name include American film director Perry Blackshear, Canadian ice hockey player Perry Anderson, and American singer-songwriter Katy Perry.

Character traits associated with the name Perry

Perry is a name that evokes a sense of charisma, enthusiasm, and spontaneity. Individuals bearing this name are often known for their outgoing nature and ability to light up a room with their infectious energy. They possess a natural charm that attracts people towards them, making them excellent social butterflies and captivating conversationalists. Perry carries a certain zest for life, always seeking new adventures and embracing the unknown with open arms. Their exuberant personality is often mixed with a mischievous streak, allowing them to inject humor into any situation. Perry is also known for their resourcefulness and quick thinking, always finding innovative solutions to overcome obstacles. While they may be adventurous, they also possess a strong sense of loyalty and reliability in their relationships. Overall, Perry exudes a vibrant and magnetic energy that draws people in and leaves a lasting impression.

Popularity of the name Perry

The name Perry has had fluctuations in popularity over the years. It gained traction in the United States during the mid-20th century but has since experienced a decline. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Perry ranked among the top 200 most frequently used names for boys. However, its popularity peaked around the 1940s when it reached its highest ranking of 128. From the 1950s onwards, the name gradually started losing favor among parents and fell out of the top 500 list by the early 2000s. Despite the decreasing popularity, Perry remains a recognizable name with a certain charm and classic appeal. It has also been given to notable figures in various fields, including actors, musicians, and sportspeople, which helps maintain its visibility and cultural significance. Overall, while the name Perry may not be as popular as it once was, it continues to hold a place in the hearts of some parents seeking a timeless and distinctive choice for their child.

Famous people with the name Perry

Perry is not an uncommon first name, and various famous individuals have sported this moniker throughout history. One notable Perry is Perry Como, an American singer and television personality known for his smooth voice and relaxed demeanor that made him a beloved entertainer during the mid-20th century. Another noteworthy Perry is Perry Mason, a fictional character created by author Erle Stanley Gardner, who appeared in numerous mystery novels and later became the protagonist of a popular television series. In the world of sports, Perry Ellis stands out as a famous basketball player who achieved great success during his collegiate career at the University of Kansas. Additionally, Perry Farrell gained fame as the lead vocalist of the alternative rock band Jane's Addiction, leaving his mark on the music industry. With their talents and accomplishments, these famous individuals named Perry have made lasting contributions in their respective fields.

Variations of the name Perry

Perry is a versatile name that has several variations, each with its own unique charm. One variation is Peri, which brings a softer touch to the name, making it feel more delicate and feminine. Then we have Perrie, a spelling commonly used for girls, giving it a slightly more distinctive and modern feel. The variation Parrish, on the other hand, adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the name, making it a great choice for someone looking for a more refined option. Another variation is Peregrine, which has a more classical and regal sound, reminiscent of nobility and grandeur. Lastly, we have Perryman, a longer variation that adds a sense of strength and authority. These variations showcase the versatility of the name Perry, offering options for different personalities and preferences, while maintaining the name's underlying charm and appeal.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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