Gary
Meaning: Spear carrier or spear ruler
Origin: Old English/Germanic
Gender: Boy
Rank in Australia: #58
Total births: 10,282
History: Gary peaked in the 1960s as one of the most Australian names of that generation. Gary Ablett Sr. was the 'God' of AFL football. Gary Ablett Jr. continued the dynasty. In Australia, Gary means Geelong, goals, and the greatest father-son combination in football history.
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Look at the data
Every number here comes directly from Australia’s birth records. No estimates, no averages — just the counts.
| Current rank (1984) | #88 |
| Babies named Gary in 1984 | 79 |
| Total recorded in Australia | 10,282 |
| Peak year | 1952 (834 babies) |
| Highest rank ever | #8 |
| Years in records | 1952–1984 (31 years of data) |
| Change over last 5 years | ↑ 6 spots |
Frequently asked about Gary
What does the name Gary mean?
Gary means “Spear carrier or spear ruler” from Old English/Germanic roots.
What is the origin of the name Gary?
Gary has Old English/Germanic origin. The traditional meaning is “Spear carrier or spear ruler”.
How popular is Gary in Australia?
Gary ranked #88 in Australia in 1984 — given to 79 babies that year.
When was Gary most popular?
Gary peaked in 1952 with 834 babies registered that year in Australia.
Is Gary a boy or girl name?
Gary is predominantly a boys' name in Australia — over 90% of Garys in registered births are male.
How long has Gary been recorded in Australia?
Gary appears in birth records in Australia across 31 years — from 1952 through 1984.