Kerry

Meaning of Kerry

Kerry is a breezy, unisex choice that sails over from Ireland’s southwest corner, borrowing its name—and its emerald-green spirit—from County Kerry, “land of the Ciar,” or “people with dark hair.” In everyday English, it’s simply pronounced KEH-ree, a friendly two-step that feels as easy as skipping stones across a lake. Parents often love that Kerry carries the wild beauty of the Ring of Kerry, all rugged cliffs and rolling sheep pastures, yet wears comfortably in an American playground. Pop-culture gives it extra sparkle—think Emmy-winner Kerry Washington or guitar legend Kerry King—while the surname-turned-first-name link to statesman John Kerry adds a quiet note of gravitas. Popularity-wise, the name rode a high Irish wave in the mid-20th century and now hovers in the 800–900s, making it familiar but far from overused. All told, Kerry offers a dash of Gaelic charm, a whisper of adventure, and a flexible, gender-friendly fit—perfect for a child destined to chart a path as free-spirited as the Atlantic winds that inspired it.