Cary

♂ Boy

Cary Pronunciation

Cary is pronounced KAIR-ee /ˈkɛr.i/High

Meaning: From an English place/river name (the Cary in Somerset) and an Irish surname; popularized by actor Cary GrantMedium

In 30 seconds: Old-Hollywood debonair: Cary is a river-and-surname name made forever suave by Cary Grant. Smooth, vintage, and effortlessly charming, with a 1930s leading-man glow.

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Origin MediumEnglish, Irish

MeaningFrom an English place/river name (the Cary in Somerset) and an Irish surname; popularized by actor Cary Grant

U.S. rank (2024)#3607 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births31 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year1957

Total births (all-time)≈ 24,472

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Cary comes from an English place- and river-name (the river Cary in Somerset) and an Irish surname (Ó Ciardha, linked to 'dark'). It became a debonair first name through actor Cary Grant (born Archibald Leach), the epitome of mid-century charm.

It registers thinly today, reading as vintage-suave. Rare, river-rooted, and charming.

Did you know? Cary Grant chose his screen name partly at random from a list — but made 'Cary' a byword for charm and elegance, the very picture of the debonair leading man.

Overall data confidence 75%

Behind the Name — Cary — etymology

Variations

CareyCarrieKarey

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Cary…

Cody— a companion easygoing vintage name

Grant— an echo of Cary Grant

Gary— a sister mid-century name

Cory— lands in the same popularity range

Barry— shares the -ry ending

→ See all names like Cary

Browse the whole category: All English names → · All Irish names → · All origins →

Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Cary?

Cary is pronounced KAIR-ee (/ˈkɛr.i/). Press play above to hear Cary said aloud.

How do you say Cary?

Cary is said KAIR-ee (/ˈkɛr.i/). Press play above to hear Cary said aloud.

What does the name Cary mean?

Cary comes from an English river-and-place name and an Irish surname; it's famous from actor Cary Grant.

Is Cary a boy or girl name?

Cary is used for both sexes; this page covers its use as a boy's name.

How popular is Cary?

Cary is a rare name for boys in the U.S.