MallowbyNames

Gurnie

GUR-nee · Derived from an English surname, itself possibly from a place name meaning 'muddy island'.

Peak popularity
1915
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Gurnie since 1915

Babies named Gurnie per year in U.S. Social Security records.

358192019602000Most births 1915Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s23
1920s31
1930s30
1940s17
1950s7
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Gurnie is a rare given name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1915, its peak year of usage during the 1910s. With no rank in the top 1,000 names for the latest year (2025), it remains a unique choice. The name's trajectory is stable, never experiencing a significant rise or fall. As an English surname-turned-first-name, Gurnie has never been common, with few bearers recorded in any decade. Its origins are tied to English place names or surnames, making it a distinctive option for parents seeking an uncommon name with historical roots.

Gurnie is an English surname that became a given name, most likely originating from a place name. The surname may derive from Old English 'gryne' (a snare or trap) or from a place like Gurnard in the Isle of Wight, though its exact meaning is uncertain. It saw limited use as a first name, especially in the early 20th century.

Sibling names for Gurnie

Names that share Gurnie's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Ethel, Lula, Mae, Nellie, Stella

Brothers: Elmer, Herman, Otis, Rufus, Virgil

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

G is for Gurnie, our favorite little boy.

G is for Gurnie…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Gurnie's letter becomes Gurnie's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Gurnie's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Gurnie mean?
Gurnie likely derives from an English surname of uncertain origin, possibly from a place name meaning 'muddy island' or related to 'gryne' (a snare).
How popular is the name Gurnie currently?
Gurnie is extremely rare. It ranked outside the top 1,000 in 2025, the most recent year tracked.
Is Gurnie typically a boy's or girl's name?
Gurnie is primarily a boy's name, historically given to boys, though it could be considered unisex.