Cary

What does the baby name Cary mean? Learn about what Cary means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Cary - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Cary
C-A-R-Y, is a 4-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Cary
KAR ee
KARE ee
Meaning of Cary
Descendant of the dark one, pure.
Origin of Cary
The name 'Cary' has its origins in the English language. It is derived from the Old English surname 'Carey' or 'Cary', which was originally a locational name referring to someone who lived near a castle or fortification. The name 'Cary' can also be traced back to the Gaelic surname 'Ó Ciardha', meaning 'descendant of Ciardha', with 'Ciardha' being a personal name of uncertain origin.
Anglo Saxon Names
Celtic Names
English Names
Irish Names
Place Names
Surname Names
Welsh Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Cary
Alcuin
Cahil
Cale
Carel
Carey
Carl
Carleton
Carlo
Carlos
Carre
Carrol
Carroll
Carry
Caryl
Cathal
Chad
Charles
Charlie
Charlot
Charlton
Chas
Chaz
Chick
Chip
Chuck
Karl
Karoly
Tearlach
Popularity of Cary
The popularity of the name 'Cary' has varied over time. In the United States, it experienced a peak in popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. It was a moderately popular choice for baby boys during this period. However, in recent decades, the name has declined in popularity and is now considered less common.
Cary currently has 25 likes, and is in the top 7% of liked boy's names. The name Finbar is slightly more popular than Cary.

Etymology of Cary

The etymology of the name 'Cary' is closely linked to its origins as a surname. The surname 'Carey' or 'Cary' is derived from the Old English word 'cærre', meaning 'fortification' or 'castle'. This word ultimately traces back to the Latin word 'castrum', which has the same meaning.

Cultural Significance of Cary

The name 'Cary' does not hold significant cultural significance in any particular culture. It is primarily used as a given name in English-speaking countries and does not carry specific cultural connotations or associations.