Barry is a male given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Barry, which means "spear valor" or "barley". The name was originally used as a surname before becoming popular as a given name in the 19th century.
The name Barry has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous Barrys is Sir James Barry, an Irish painter who was known for his portraits of notable figures such as King George IV and Queen Victoria. Another notable figure is the American actor and comedian, Barrymore, whose real name was John Barrymore.
Despite its Irish origins, the name Barry has been popular in various parts of the world. In England and Wales, it was among the top 100 most common boys' names from the 1960s to the 1980s. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and distinctive name with an interesting history.
In terms of its meaning, Barry is often associated with strength and courage due to its derivation from the Irish word "spear". However, some sources also suggest that it may have been associated with the barley plant, which was an important crop in Ireland. Ultimately, the meaning of Barry may vary depending on individual interpretation and cultural context.
Overall, the name Barry is a classic choice with a rich history and a unique origin story. Whether you're looking for a strong and distinctive name or one with an interesting background, Barry is certainly worth considering.
The name Barry has seen a significant increase and decrease in popularity over the years in the United States, as indicated by the annual birth statistics provided.
From 1883 to 1924, there was a steady but modest growth in the number of births with the name Barry. The highest number during this period was 54 births in 1923.
However, starting from 1925, there was a significant increase in popularity for the name Barry. The number of births rose dramatically from 69 in 1925 to a peak of 240 in 1930. This trend continued throughout the 1930s and 1940s, with the highest number of births recorded at 4624 in 1946.
The popularity of the name Barry reached its zenith in the 1950s and early 1960s. The name was among the top 100 most popular names for boys during this period, with a peak of 6582 births in 1962.
However, starting from the mid-1960s, there was a decline in the popularity of the name Barry. By 1972, the number of births had decreased to 1752. This downward trend continued throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with the lowest point reached in 1983 with only 993 births.
From the late 1980s onwards, the popularity of the name Barry has remained relatively stable but at a lower level compared to its peak years. As of 2022, there were 104 births with the name Barry in the United States.
In total, from 1883 to 2022, there have been 181,019 babies born in the United States named Barry. Despite the fluctuations in popularity over the years, the name Barry has maintained a consistent presence among American baby names.