The Name Library LogoThe Name Library
A-Z BrowseFinderAI FinderBlogFavoritesCompare
A-Z BrowseFinderAI FinderBlogFavoritesCompare

© 2026 The Name Library. All rights reserved.

BlogAbout & FeedbackPrivacy Policy
Henry | Meaning, Origin & History | The Name Library

Name Detail

Henry

Henry is a masculine given name derived from Old French Henri or Henry, which is derived from the Old Frankish name Heimeric, from Common Germanic “Haimarīks”. In Old High German, the name was conflated with the name Haginrich to form Heinrich.

French originSecular traditionShort

Meaning

Henry is a masculine given name derived from Old French Henri or Henry, which is derived from the Ol

Snapshot

A boy name with 2 syllables. Currently considered popular.

Popularity Over Time

U.S. Data (2000-2023)

Explore how the popularity of Henry has changed over the last two decades.

Historical Context & Cultural Origin

Henry is a Germanic name that became popular in France through the House of Capet. It spread throughout Europe during the Middle Ages and has been a favored name for royalty and nobility in many countries, particularly England and France. Its meaning, often interpreted as 'home ruler' or 'estate ruler,' reflects its association with leadership and authority.

Famous Namesakes

Henry VIII of England, Henry Ford, Henry David Thoreau, Henry Kissinger, Henry Cavill

Nicknames & Variations

Hank, Harry, Hal, Hen

AI Cultural Insight

Deep dive into history & etymology

Names you might also love

Grant

French

tall

Tristan

French

Tristan, Tristram, or Tristen is a given name derived from Welsh drust, influenced by the French wor

Louis

French

Louis is the French form of the Old Frankish given name Chlodwig and one of two English forms, the o

Jaylen

French

Jaylen is a given name. Notable people with the name include:Jaylen Adams, American basketball playe

Richard

French

strong in rule

Back to resultsSurprise me

Austin

French

Austin is an English masculine given name, an Old French language contraction of Agustin as Aostin,