HOME > Henry Last Name Meaning
What Does the Name Henry Mean?
Henry is a masculine given name that has its roots in Germanic languages. The name is derived from the Old High German name Heinrich, which means 'home ruler' or 'ruler of the household'. The name was popularized by various kings and emperors throughout history, including Henry VIII of England and Henry IV of France.
Henry as a Last Name
In addition to being a first name, Henry is also a last name. The surname Henry has its origins in England and Scotland. It is derived from the personal name Henry, and was originally used as a patronymic, meaning 'son of Henry'. Today, the last name Henry is most commonly found in the United States, followed by Canada, England, and Australia.
History of the Name Henry
The name Henry has a long and rich history. It was first used in the Middle Ages, and became popular in England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name was borne by eight kings of England, including Henry VIII, who is perhaps the most famous. Henry VIII is known for his six marriages and his role in the English Reformation. The name Henry has also been popular in France, where it was borne by several kings and emperors, including Henry IV, who was known as the 'Good King Henry'.
Popularity of the Name Henry
The name Henry has been a popular choice for parents for centuries. In the United States, the name has been in the top 100 baby names for boys since the late 1800s. It reached its peak in popularity in the 1910s, when it was the 8th most popular name for boys. The name then declined in popularity until the 1990s, when it began to rise again. Today, the name Henry is once again a popular choice for parents, and is currently ranked as the 16th most popular name for boys in the United States.
Famous People with the Name Henry
There have been many famous people throughout history with the name Henry. Some of the most notable include: - Henry VIII, King of England - Henry David Thoreau, American author and philosopher - Henry Ford, American industrialist and founder of Ford Motor Company - Henry Kissinger, American diplomat and political scientist - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, American poet - Henry Cavill, British actor best known for his role as Superman in the DC Extended Universe These individuals have all contributed to the legacy of the name Henry, and have helped to make it a popular choice for parents today.
Conclusion
Choosing a name for your child is an important decision, and the name Henry is a great choice for many reasons. With its rich history, strong meaning, and popularity, the name Henry is a timeless classic that will never go out of style. Whether you choose to use it as a first name or a last name, the name Henry is sure to make a lasting impression.
