Germanic boy name

Henry Name Meaning, Origin & Pronunciation

Henry means ruler of the home. From the Germanic Heimirich, meaning home ruler.

Henry comes from the Germanic Heimirich, built from heim, meaning home, and ric, meaning ruler. It came to England with the Normans and was borne by eight kings, including Henry V and Henry VIII. The name was always popular, and its medieval pet form Harry became a separate name in everyday English. Around the world it appears as Heinrich in German, Henri in French, and Enrique in Spanish. Henry has a kingly past, but today it feels approachable and a little bookish. Henry Ford, the industrialist, and Henry David Thoreau, the writer, are famous bearers.

Variants of Henry

HarryHalHenriHeinrichEnrique

Well-known people named Henry

Henry Ford, Henry David Thoreau.

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Henry mean?

Henry means "ruler of the home". From the Germanic Heimirich, meaning home ruler.

How do you pronounce Henry?

Henry is pronounced HEN-ree.

What is the origin of Henry?

Henry is of Germanic origin. From the Germanic Heimirich, meaning home ruler.