Garrett
/ˈɡæɹ.ɪt/
Garrett is an English surname-turned-given-name derived from Gerard or Gerald, both of Germanic origin. The root elements are ger meaning “spear” and hard meaning “brave” or “strong.”
As a surname, Garrett was established in medieval England and Ireland through Norman influence. The transition to first-name use accelerated in the 20th century as surname-names gained broad popularity.
Garrett ranked No. 562 in 2024 with 527 births. It hit its peak at No. 74 in 2000 with 5,840 births, making it a genuine top-100 name at the turn of the millennium.
What the name Garrett means
NFL wide receiver Garrett Wilson and other athletes have kept the name visible in sports. The name’s association with strength and determination fits its warrior etymology.
Two syllables — GAIR-et — have a clean, decisive sound. The hard G opening and short vowels give it a no-nonsense quality that avoids frills.
The drop from 5,840 births to 527 in just 24 years is steep. Garrett was a product of the 1990s surname-name wave that also lifted Carson, Parker, and Cooper into the top 100.
Despite its decline, Garrett remains familiar and well-established. It reads as a solid, unpretentious choice — recognizable to everyone but no longer common enough to feel overused.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Garrett
Garrett - similar names
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