The name Garret has its origins in the Germanic languages, specifically derived from the Old English word "gerƥefa," which means "granter" or "bestower." This name was commonly used in medieval England and was associated with individuals who held positions of authority, such as stewards or administrators.

In the early Middle Ages, the name Garret was particularly prevalent in regions of England and parts of the Germanic lands. The earliest recorded instances of the name can be traced back to the 11th century, appearing in various historical documents and records from that period.

One notable historical figure bearing the name Garret was Garret FitzGerald, who lived in the 12th century and served as Lord Chancellor of Ireland under King Henry II. He played a significant role in the Norman conquest of Ireland and the establishment of English rule in the country.

Another prominent individual was Garret Augustus Hobart, who was born in 1844 and served as the 24th Vice President of the United States under President William McKinley from 1897 until his death in 1899. He was a prominent lawyer and politician from New Jersey.

In the realm of literature, Garret Nazianzus, also known as Gregory of Nazianzus, was a celebrated 4th-century Christian bishop and theologian from Cappadocia, renowned for his influential theological writings and his role in the First Council of Constantinople in 381 AD.

The name Garret also has religious significance, appearing in biblical texts. For instance, the Book of Tobit mentions a character named Garret, who was one of the seven archangels in the apocryphal tradition.

Other notable individuals who bore the name Garret include Garret Augustus Morgan Sr. (1877-1963), an African American inventor best known for patenting the first automatic traffic signal and the safety hood, a precursor to the gas mask. Garret FitzGerald (1913-2011) was an Irish politician who served as Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland from 1981 to 1987.

While the name Garret may have waned in popularity in recent times, it remains an integral part of various cultural and historical contexts, carrying with it a rich legacy spanning multiple centuries and regions.