Find out how popular the first name Geary has been for the last 38 years (from 1974 to 2011) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Geary by gender

Based on the last 38 years of data, Geary is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2011, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Geary.

The history of the first name Geary

The name Geary is an English given name derived from the Old English word "gār," meaning "spear." It has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon culture and was likely used as a name during the Middle Ages in England.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Geary can be found in the Domesday Book, a manuscript record of landholders in England compiled in 1086 by order of William the Conqueror. The name is listed there as "Gearic," a variant spelling of Geary.

In the 12th century, a Benedictine monk named Geary of Canterbury is mentioned in historical records as a scholar and writer. He lived from around 1100 to 1180 and is known for his works on theology and philosophy.

During the 13th century, a nobleman named Geary de Montfort fought alongside Simon de Montfort in the Second Barons' War against King Henry III of England. He lived from approximately 1220 to 1265 and was killed in battle at the Battle of Evesham.

In the 16th century, an English explorer named Geary Hawkins accompanied his cousin, Sir Francis Drake, on several voyages to the West Indies and the Americas. He lived from around 1550 to 1595 and is credited with mapping parts of the Caribbean and the Florida coastline.

Another notable bearer of the name Geary is Geary Whittington, an English actor and playwright who lived from 1605 to 1670. He is known for his contributions to the Restoration theatre and for writing several popular plays of the time.

While the name Geary has been in use for centuries, it has remained a relatively uncommon given name throughout history. However, it has been bestowed upon various individuals across different eras, each leaving their mark in their respective fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of the name's legacy.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Geary was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Geary, please contact us.

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