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Henry

Henry is of Germanic origin, deriving from the name 'Heinrich', which means 'ruler of the home' from the elements 'heim' (home) and 'ric' (ruler or power). Historically, it has been a name associated with royalty and leadership, reflected in its usage by numerous kings and noble figures throughout European history.

IPA: /ˈhɛnri/ · Simplified: HEN-ree

Male
Germanic
Western European
Europe
regal
strong
classic
dependable

69/100

Popularity

Rising

10-Year Trend

8

Countries

2024

Peak Year

Meaning of Henry

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

Henry is of Germanic origin, deriving from the name 'Heinrich', which means 'ruler of the home' from the elements 'heim' (home) and 'ric' (ruler or power). Historically, it has been a name associated with royalty and leadership, reflected in its usage by numerous kings and noble figures throughout European history.

Does Henry flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Henry

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈhɛnri/ · Simplified: HEN-ree

Nicknames for Henry

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Hank
Harry
Hen
Hal

Henry name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

70

United Kingdom

68

United States

67

Canada

66

Australia

65

New Zealand

64

Ireland

62

Sweden

61

Norway

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Henrik

Henri

Enrique

Hendrik

Heinrich

Names like Henry

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Henry

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

People named Henry are often viewed as leaders with a strong sense of responsibility and integrity. They are seen as reliable, with a natural propensity for leadership and decision-making. The name carries an air of authority and tradition, often associated with a classic and timeless character.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

Not traditionally celebrated

Famous people named Henry

Well-known figures who share this name.

H

Henry VIII

King of England, reigned from 1509 to 1547

H

Henry Ford

American industrialist and founder of the Ford Motor Company, lived 1863–1947

Frequently asked questions about Henry

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Henry mean?
Here is the meaning behind Henry: Henry is of Germanic origin, deriving from the name 'Heinrich', which means 'ruler of the home' from the elements 'heim' (home) and 'ric' (ruler or power). Historically, it has been a name associated with royalty and leadership, reflected in its usage by numerous kings and noble figures throughout European history.
Is Henry a boy or girl name?
Henry is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Henry?
Henry scores 69/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2024.
What are good nicknames for Henry?
Popular nicknames for Henry: Hank, Harry, Hen, Hal.
What names are similar to Henry?
Names similar to Henry: Harry, Harrison, Hank, Hal — close in sound, origin, or style.

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