The name Gregory evokes a sense of watchfulness and vigilance, qualities that have resonated through centuries and across cultures. If you’re considering the name Gregory for your little one, understanding its meaning, history, and popularity can help you decide.
The Meaning of Gregory
The name Gregory originates from the Greek word "Grēgorios" (Γρηγόριος), derived from "grēgoreō" (γρηγορέω), meaning "to watch," "to be awake," or "vigilant." This meaning imparts a sense of attentiveness and leadership, suggesting someone who is observant and protective.
Gregory Name Popularity
How popular is the name Gregory? Let’s delve into its historical trends.
While comprehensive historical popularity data is available, a detailed table from SSA.gov reveals the name’s ranking and frequency in the United States from 1910 to 2023. A review of the data indicates that the name’s popularity peaked in the mid-20th century, particularly during the post-World War II baby boom.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | – | 0 | 0% |
| 1911 | 602 | 6 | 0.0016% |
| … | … | … | … |
| 1945 | 96 | 2,459 | 0.2016% |
| 1946 | 56 | 5,668 | 0.3841% |
| 1947 | 33 | 9,324 | 0.5586% |
| 1948 | 32 | 9,724 | 0.6091% |
| 1949 | 31 | 10,980 | 0.6826% |
| 1950 | 25 | 13,312 | 0.8268% |
| 1951 | 25 | 14,102 | 0.8317% |
| 1952 | 24 | 15,207 | 0.8712% |
| 1953 | 24 | 16,149 | 0.9125% |
| 1954 | 25 | 17,611 | 0.9634% |
| 1955 | 24 | 19,809 | 1.0769% |
| 1956 | 24 | 21,082 | 1.1162% |
| 1957 | 23 | 21,447 | 1.1145% |
| 1958 | 23 | 19,790 | 1.0471% |
| 1959 | 23 | 19,873 | 1.046% |
| 1960 | 24 | 20,316 | 1.0722% |
| 1961 | 23 | 21,354 | 1.1311% |
| 1962 | 21 | 21,964 | 1.1964% |
| 1963 | 21 | 21,432 | 1.194% |
| 1964 | 22 | 19,889 | 1.1299% |
| 1965 | 23 | 18,210 | 1.1135% |
| … | … | … | … |
| 2018 | 403 | 738 | 0.0537% |
| 2019 | 386 | 761 | 0.0562% |
| 2020 | 427 | 640 | 0.0503% |
| 2021 | 498 | 551 | 0.0451% |
| 2022 | 500 | 567 | 0.043% |
| 2023 | 528 | 523 | 0.0404% |
The data shows a significant decline in popularity towards the end of the 20th and the beginning of the 21st century. While not as common as it once was, Gregory maintains a presence, offering a classic and timeless choice.
Names Like Gregory
If you’re drawn to the name Gregory, you might also appreciate these similar options:
- Diminutives: Greg
- Variants: Graig, Greer, Greger, Gregg, Greggory, Gregoire, Gregoor, Gregor, Gregori, Gregorio, Gregorius, Gregos, Grigor, Grigori, Grigorios, Grygor, Grzegorz
- Similar Names: Grayson
Siblings of Gregory
Parents who chose the name Gregory also often selected these names for their other children:
- Brian
- Andrew
These names share a classic appeal and a sense of strength, complementing the qualities associated with Gregory.