Perry
PER-EE
Perry is an English occupational and locational surname turned given name, referring to someone who lived by or tended a pear tree. It also functions as a familiar short form of Peregrine, the Latin name meaning pilgrim or traveller. The name has a cheerful, approachable quality that sits comfortably in both classic and contemporary settings. Its brevity gives it a punchy, confident feel without losing warmth.
At a glance
A breezy English name meaning pear tree, with a classic mid-century charm that is steadily coming back into fashion.
Etymology & History
Perry derives from the Old English 'pirige', meaning pear tree, via the Middle English 'perrie'. As a surname it identified families living near pear orchards or trees. It also developed independently as a pet form of Peregrine, from Latin 'peregrinus' meaning foreign, wandering, or pilgrim. Both routes converge on a name that is thoroughly English in character, with roots in both the rural landscape and the Latin-educated tradition.
Cultural Significance
Perry was a staple of mid-twentieth century America and Britain, carried largely by the entertainer Perry Como and popularised by the fictional Perry Mason. Its comfortable, retro quality puts it in the same revival bracket as names like Barry, Terry, and Gary, yet Perry has a slightly softer edge that distinguishes it. The word 'perry' also refers to the fermented pear drink similar to cider, connecting the name to an old English rural tradition. This layered identity, occupational surname, literary hero, and easy-going given name, gives Perry an understated depth.
Famous people named Perry
Perry Como
American singer (1912-2001) whose relaxed baritone and long television career made him one of the most recognised entertainers of the mid-twentieth century.
Perry Mason
Fictional defence lawyer created by Erle Stanley Gardner, hero of novels from 1933 and a long-running American television series.
Katy Perry
American pop singer and cultural phenomenon, born Katheryn Hudson, who adopted Perry as a stage surname in homage to actress Katy Perry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Perry
Barry
“Spear, fair-haired”
Barry is a sturdy Irish name with dual meanings, "spear" and "fair-haired," derived from the Gaelic name Barra or Bairre. It carries connotations of strength and brightness, reflecting the warrior culture and Celtic heritage of Ireland. Historically associated with both martial prowess and physical appearance, Barry is a name with honest, grounded character.
Kerry
“Dark-haired people”
Kerry is an Irish name derived from the Gaelic "Ciar," meaning dark or black, combined with a collective suffix, giving the meaning "dark-haired people" or "descendants of the dark one." It is also famously associated with a county in Ireland known for its stunning natural beauty. The name has a gentle, accessible sound that works well for both boys and girls.
Percy
“Pierce the valley”
Percy derives from the Norman French surname Percy, which referred to a place in Normandy. The place name is thought to come from a Gaulish personal name combined with a suffix denoting an estate. As a given name it became strongly associated with the aristocratic Percy family of Northumberland, one of England's most powerful medieval dynasties. It has recently undergone a fashionable revival as a vintage boys name with charm and spirit.
Peregrine
“Traveller, pilgrim”
Peregrine derives from the Latin 'peregrinus', meaning foreign, one who comes from abroad, or more poetically, a traveller or pilgrim. In the medieval Christian tradition, the pilgrim was an important spiritual figure, and the name carried connotations of spiritual journey and devotion. In England, Peregrine became established as a given name among the aristocracy, acquiring an air of dashing eccentricity and upper-class confidence. The Peregrine falcon takes its name from the same Latin root, as it was believed to be caught in the wild while already in passage rather than taken from the nest. This connection to one of nature's most spectacular birds adds another dimension to the name's appeal. Today, Peregrine is rare but perfectly at home among English parents who favour long, literary names with strong historical character.
Where you'll find Perry
Perry shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.