Kary
About Kary
Kary is a masculine name with multiple origins. It can be a variant of Gary, derived from the Germanic name meaning 'spear ruler,' or a diminutive of names starting with 'K' such as Kenneth or Karl. In some cultures, Kary may be used as a male variation of the feminine name Kari, which has Norse origins meaning 'pure.' While more commonly used as a feminine name in English-speaking countries, Kary has maintained its usage as a masculine name in various cultures. The name has a gentle yet strong quality to it, and though not among the most popular boys' names, it has had consistent, modest usage throughout the decades.
Pronounced KAR-ee.
As of October 2026, Kary ranked #10796 in US births in 2005 SSA, peaked at #1083 in 1963.
AI-written. Reviewed by Pamela Redmond
Sources: US popularity data is from the Social Security Administration. Meanings and origins are from Nameberry's name references.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank | Births | Per million |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2015 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2016 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2018 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2020 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | — | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | — | 0 | 0 |
Kary on lists
Famous Karys
- Kary Mullis
winner of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry