Peri: a female name of Old English (Anglo-saxon) origin meaning "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin".It derives from the Old English (Anglo-saxon) word (pyrige) (ap Harry).
The name Peri carries a rich history rooted in Old English (Anglo-saxon) culture. Derived from "(pyrige) (ap Harry)", this feminine name embodies the essence of Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Old English (Anglo-saxon)-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Peri
Quick facts about Peri
Origin
Old English (Anglo-saxon), Welsh
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
(pyrige) (ap Harry)
How to Pronounce Peri
Peri is pronounced /ˈpɛ.ri/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Per-i
Say it like: "PER-I"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Peri is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Name Relationships
The masculine counterpart to Peri is Perry, sharing the same Old English (Anglo-saxon) etymology and core meaning. Both names derive from the same linguistic root.
Peri means "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West.". The name comes from (pyrige) (ap Harry). This old english (anglo-saxon) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Peri for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Peri's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Peri?
Peri has old english (anglo-saxon) and welsh origins. The name traces back to (pyrige) (ap Harry). The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old english (anglo-saxon) meaning "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Peri a boy or girl name?
Peri is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, Peri has historically been given to girls. The meaning "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Peri?
Peri is pronounced "/ˈpɛ.ri/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Peri is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old english (anglo-saxon) names, listening to a native speaker say Peri can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Peri?
Peri is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Peri offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Peri's popularity may vary between old english (anglo-saxon) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Peri holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Peri?
Peri is related to Perry (feminine). The feminine version Perry carries the same essential meaning, adapted to fit naming conventions for girls. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Peri might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english, Peri may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Peri commonly used?
Peri is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though old english (anglo-saxon) in origin, Peri found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "Peri derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin. It can be derived from the Middle English “perrie”, Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “pyrige,” meaning “pear tree,” or else from the Welsh “ap Herry,” meaning “son of Herry,” which is the diminutive of Henry and Harold. A famous bearer of the surname was Matthew Perry (1794–1858), the American naval officer who opened Japan to the West." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Peri into their naming traditions. A child named Peri will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Peri is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.