The name Gregory originates from the Greek language and has its roots in the Late Latin name "Gregorius". It is derived from the Greek word "gregorios" which means "watchful" or "vigilant". The name gained popularity during the early Christian era, around the 3rd century AD.

Gregory was a common name among early Christians, particularly in the Mediterranean region. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Bible, where Gregory of Nazianzus, a influential 4th century Christian theologian and Archbishop of Constantinople, is mentioned.

In the 6th century, Pope Gregory I, also known as Gregory the Great, played a significant role in the spread of Christianity throughout Europe. His contributions to the Catholic Church and his reforms earned him the title of "Doctor of the Church". Gregory I is believed to have been born around 540 AD and died in 604 AD.

Another notable figure with the name Gregory was Gregory of Tours, a Gallo-Roman historian and Bishop of Tours, who lived from around 538 AD to 594 AD. His writings, particularly the "Historia Francorum" (History of the Franks), provide valuable insights into the Merovingian dynasty and the transition from Roman to Germanic rule in Gaul.

In the 9th century, Gregory of Utrecht, a missionary and reformer, played a crucial role in the conversion of the Frisians to Christianity. He was born around 707 AD and died in 781 AD.

The name Gregory also gained prominence in the Eastern Orthodox Church, with figures such as Gregory Palamas, a 14th century monk, theologian, and Archbishop of Thessaloniki, who was a prominent advocate of the hesychast tradition of prayer. He lived from around 1296 AD to 1359 AD.

Throughout history, the name Gregory has been borne by many influential individuals, including Gregory VII, a 11th century Pope who played a significant role in the Investiture Controversy and the assertion of papal authority over secular rulers. He was born around 1020 AD and died in 1085 AD.