Gentry
Gentry is a boy's name of English origin.
Meaning
Of noble birth, high social standing, or gentle manners.
Origin and history
Gentry originates as an English occupational or status surname derived from Old French, referring to someone of noble birth or good social standing. Historically a surname, it has transitioned into a given name in the United States for both boys and girls. Its usage as a male name has risen steadily in recent years.
Popularity in the United States
4,287 babies in the United States have been named Gentry since 1880. It ranks #1903 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1220.
States where it is most popular
- TX (27.2 %)
- TN (12.3 %)
- MO (8.2 %)
- NC (6.4 %)
- IN (6.3 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 5 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 13 |
| 1910-1920 | 128 |
| 1920-1930 | 181 |
| 1930-1940 | 142 |
| 1940-1950 | 142 |
| 1950-1960 | 175 |
| 1960-1970 | 232 |
| 1970-1980 | 300 |
| 1980-1990 | 319 |
| 1990-2000 | 380 |
| 2000-2010 | 506 |
| 2010-2019 | 1,003 |
| 2020-2029 | 761 |
Fun facts
- The word gentry comes from the Old French 'genterise', which meant 'noble birth' or 'courtesy'.
- Like many modern unisex names, Gentry originated as an English surname before becoming popular as a given name.