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Garrett

♂ Boy

Pronounced GAIR-it /ˈɡær.ɪt/High

Meaning: Spear strength; an English surname and given name derived from the Germanic Gerard, meaning 'spear' + 'hard/brave'High

In 30 seconds: A sturdy Anglo-Norman name meaning 'spear strength,' Garrett evolved from the medieval Gerard and has been a steadfast American favorite for decades.
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Origin HighGermanic, English
MeaningSpear strength; an English surname and given name derived from the Germanic Gerard, meaning 'spear' + 'hard/brave'
U.S. rank (2025)#564 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births526 boys (0.03% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2000
Total births (all-time)≈ 135,748

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 200018802025

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Garrett is an English and Irish surname-turned-given-name derived from the medieval Germanic name Gerard (from ger 'spear' + hard 'brave, hardy'). The Anglo-Norman pronunciation shifted Gerard to Garrett in medieval English usage. As a surname it became common throughout Britain and Ireland.

Garrett entered consistent use as a given name in the United States during the 19th century and grew steadily through the 20th century. It peaked in American popularity during the 1990s and remains a solid choice, appreciated for its strong consonant sounds and unpretentious character.

Did you know? Garrett is also a famous Irish surname — Thomas Garrett was a key conductor on the Underground Railroad who helped more than 2,700 enslaved people reach freedom.
Overall data confidence 91%
Behind the Name — Garrett — etymologyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

GarretGerardGareth

Nicknames

GaryRett

Famous Bearers

  • ★Garrett Morgan (1877–1963)
    African-American inventor who patented the three-position traffic signal and a pioneering gas mask.

If you like Garrett…

Gavin— shares the strong G- opening and the same sturdy Anglo-Celtic feel
Griffin— another two-syllable G- surname-style name with a confident sound
Grant— fellow short, strong Anglo name popular in American usage
Graham— shares the G- consonant and the same grounded, no-nonsense character

Frequently Asked

What does the name Garrett mean?

Garrett means 'spear strength' or 'brave with a spear,' derived from the Germanic name Gerard.

How do you pronounce Garrett?

Garrett is said GAIR-it — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Garrett a first name or surname?

Garrett is used as both a given name and a surname in English-speaking countries.

How popular is Garrett?

Garrett ranked in the U.S. top 200 boys' names through the 1990s and remains in use, typically appearing in the top 400.