Perry: a male name of Old English (Anglo-saxon) origin meaning "Perry derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin".It derives from the Old English (Anglo-saxon) word (PYRIGE) (AP HARRY).
Perry has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Old English (Anglo-saxon) roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "Perry derives from a surname, which is both English and Welsh in origin" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Perry
Quick facts about Perry
Origin
Old English (Anglo-saxon), Welsh
Gender
Boy 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
Perry 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 Perry
Perry is pronounced /ˈpɛr.i/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Per-ry
Say it like: "PER-RY"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Perry is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Frequently Asked Questions About Perry
What does the name Perry mean?
Perry means "Perry 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 Perry for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "Perry 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, Perry's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Perry?
Perry 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 "Perry 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 Perry a boy or girl name?
Perry is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In old english (anglo-saxon) tradition, Perry has historically been given to boys. The meaning "Perry 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 son, giving the name lasting appeal. Perry ranks among the more popular boy's names, suggesting many parents find it appealing.
How do you pronounce Perry?
Perry is pronounced "/ˈpɛr.i/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Perry 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 Perry can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name.
How popular is the name Perry?
Perry is popular and well-recognized. Perry falls into the sweet spot of recognizable but not overused. People will know how to spell and pronounce it, yet your child probably won't share it with three classmates. Perry's popularity may vary between old english (anglo-saxon) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "Perry 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 boys' names, Perry holds its own, appealing to parents who value classic choices.
Where is the name Perry commonly used?
Perry is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though old english (anglo-saxon) in origin, Perry found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "Perry 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 Perry into their naming traditions. A child named Perry 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, Perry is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.