Henry is a name of English origin that has been popular for centuries. It is derived from the Old French name Henri, which in turn comes from the German name Heinrich. The meaning of Henry is "home ruler" or "estate ruler," and it is believed to have come from the Germanic elements haim "home" and ric "powerful."
The name Henry first appeared in England with the arrival of the Normans in the 11th century. It was brought over by William the Conqueror, who had several relatives named Henri or Henry. The name quickly gained popularity among the nobility and eventually became one of the most common names in medieval England.
Throughout history, there have been many notable figures with the name Henry. Some of the most famous include Henry VIII, the Tudor king of England known for his six marriages and the English Reformation; Henry David Thoreau, the American transcendentalist writer and philosopher; and Henry Ford, the founder of the Ford Motor Company.
Despite its long history and popularity, the name Henry has not gone out of style. It remains a popular choice for parents today, both in English-speaking countries and around the world. In fact, according to data from the Social Security Administration, Henry was the 12th most popular boys' name in the United States in 2020.
Overall, the name Henry is a classic choice with a rich history and strong meanings behind it. Whether you're drawn to its regal connotations or simply like the sound of it, choosing Henry as a name is sure to be a timeless decision.
The name Henry has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past few decades, with a total of 720 babies given this name since 1986. The number of births each year has varied significantly, ranging from a low of 5 births in 1987 to a high of 48 births in 2007.
Interestingly, the popularity of the name Henry seems to have followed a somewhat cyclical pattern over time. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the number of babies named Henry was relatively low, with fewer than 15 births each year from 1986 to 1997. However, starting in 1998, there was a significant increase in the number of babies named Henry, with over 20 births each year for several years running.
This trend continued until around 2007, when the popularity of the name Henry peaked at 48 births that year. Since then, the number of babies named Henry has declined somewhat, but it remains relatively steady, with between 13 and 30 births each year from 2015 to 2022.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Henry has fluctuated over time, it remains a classic and beloved choice for parents in the United States. With over 700 babies given this name since 1986, it is clear that Henry continues to be a name that resonates with many families.