Jerry
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Jerry
Jerry, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Greek origin.
Meaning of Jerry
Holy
Jerry is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English name Gerald, which means “rules by the spear.” It can also be interpreted as a combination of the names Jeremy and Gary.
| Meaning | Holy |
| Origin | Greek |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #865 in 2024 Declining |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1940s) |
Background & History of The Name Jerry
Jerry is a name with Hebrew origins, derived from the name Yehoshua, meaning "God will raise" or "He will increase." It is a masculine given name commonly used among people of English-speaking countries. Jerry is often considered a diminutive form of the name Gerald or Gerard. The name gained popularity in the mid-20th century and has since remained a well-known name in various cultures.
As a given name, Jerry has been used by many notable individuals across different fields. One such example is Jerry Seinfeld, an American comedian and actor widely known for his self-titled sitcom "Seinfeld," which is considered one of the greatest and most influential television shows of all time. Another significant figure named Jerry is Jerry Lewis, an American actor, comedian, and filmmaker who became an iconic figure in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century.
Throughout history, the name Jerry has also been associated with famous musicians. Jerry Garcia was the lead guitarist and co-founder of the Grateful Dead, an influential American rock band known for their improvisational style and loyal fan base. Country music enthusiasts may recognize Jerry Reed, a talented singer, songwriter, and actor famous for hits such as "Amos Moses" and "When You're Hot, You're Hot."
In addition to its cultural significance, Jerry has also become a popular character name in literature and media. Jerry Mouse is a beloved cartoon character and one-half of the iconic duo Tom and Jerry. This animated series, created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, has entertained audiences worldwide with its comedic cat-and-mouse chases since its debut in 1940.
Overall, Jerry is a versatile and enduring name that has left its mark in various domains, from comedy and music to television and literature.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Jerry over the years.
Similar Greek Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Jerry.
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