Gerrie is a unique and uncommon female given name of Dutch origin. It is believed to be a diminutive form of the Dutch name Gerarda, which itself is derived from the Germanic elements "ger" meaning "spear" and "hard" meaning "strong, brave". Therefore, Gerrie can be translated as "little spear", symbolizing strength and bravery.
The name Gerarda was popular among the nobility in the Middle Ages and it is likely that the diminutive form Gerrie emerged during this period. However, it is not a well-documented name and its exact origin and history are difficult to trace.
Today, Gerrie remains a rare name, but it has been used by some families as a way to honor their Dutch heritage or simply to choose an uncommon name for their child. While it may not have the same popularity as more common names like Emma or Charlotte, Gerrie is a distinctive and memorable choice that carries with it a rich history and meaning.
The name Gerrie has had varying popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 1,367 births recorded between 1918 and 1984.
Between 1918 and 1928, there was a steady increase in the number of babies named Gerrie, with the highest year being 1928 with 14 births. This trend continued into the early 1930s, peaking at 22 births in 1932.
However, after this peak, the popularity of the name Gerrie began to decline. Between 1933 and 1946, there was a noticeable decrease in the number of babies named Gerrie, with some years having less than 10 births each year.
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, there was another slight increase in popularity for the name Gerrie. The highest year during this period was 1952 with 26 births.
After 1952, the popularity of the name Gerrie continued to decline steadily until it reached its lowest point between 1975 and 1984, with fewer than 10 babies named Gerrie each year. The lowest year recorded was in 1980 with only 6 births.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Gerrie has fluctuated over the years, it remains a unique and historic name choice for parents looking to give their child a distinctive name with a rich history.