Gary

boyGermanic

Gary is a boy name of Germanic, via English origin, meaning “Spear”.

MeaningSpear
GenderBoy
OriginGermanic, via English
PronunciationGAIR-ee
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Australia

Meaning and origin of Gary

Gary is generally traced to an English surname derived from Germanic names beginning with gar, 'spear'. It became a popular first name after the actor Gary Cooper, born Frank Cooper, adopted it in the 1920s, taking it from the town of Gary, Indiana. It was then extremely common in the English-speaking world from the 1940s to the 1960s.

Is Gary a religious name?

Gary has no religious background; it is a secular name popularised by Hollywood.

How popular is Gary?

Common among men born in the mid-twentieth century; rare for babies today.

Gifts with the name Gary

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Spellings and variants of Gary

GarryGarrett

Names similar to Gary

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Gary mean?

Gary means 'Spear'. It is of Germanic, via English origin.

Does Gary have a religious meaning?

Gary has no religious background; it is a secular name popularised by Hollywood.

How do you pronounce Gary?

Gary is pronounced GAIR-ee.

Is Gary a boy or girl name?

Gary is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.