Archy

Scottish from German

"truly brave"

Archy Origin and Meaning

The name Archy is a boy's name.

Archy is a diminutive form of the name Archibald, which derives from Old German elements meaning 'genuine' and 'bold' or 'brave'. This charming vintage nickname has a friendly, approachable quality that balances the more formal Archibald. Archy enjoyed modest popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries, before declining in usage. It carries a distinctive literary connection through the character Archy the cockroach, from Don Marquis' newspaper columns beginning in 1916. Today, Archy may appeal to parents seeking a name with historical roots yet a playful, unpretentious character. Though uncommon in contemporary usage, it fits with the trend of reviving vintage nicknames as standalone names.

Famous People Named Archy

• Archy Kirkwood Baron Kirkwood of Kirkhope, Scottish MP

The name Archy in Pop Culture

• archy typing cockroach in Don Marquis's 'archy and mehitabel' series
• Archy Moore character in Richard Hildreth's 'The Slave; or, Memoirs of Archy Moore' (1836)
• Archy character in "RocknRolla"