Jeffrey

Meaning & origin

Jeffrey is a familiar name with medieval roots, long established as a common masculine choice in the English-speaking world. Its peak came in 1966, when it ranked among the top 30 names for boys in the United States, riding a wave of popularity that had been building since the early 20th century. The name first appeared in U.S. Social Security records in 1885, and by the mid-1960s it had become a staple, buoyed by cultural figures and a general preference for friendly, approachable-sounding names. After that peak, Jeffrey began a gradual decline. By 1985, a clear downward trajectory set in, and the name has been falling in usage ever since. As of 2025, it stands at rank 552, given to approximately 1 in 3,140 baby boys. The name remains most popular in the Midwest and South, with top states including Missouri, Kentucky, and Alabama, where its friendly, two-syllable rhythm continues to resonate. While no longer a top choice nationally, Jeffrey carries an enduring, conservative appeal that keeps it in regular use.

Jeffrey is a spelling variant of Geoffrey, which was introduced to England by the Normans. The name derives from an Old French form of a Germanic name, probably composed of the elements *gudą* ('god') or *gautaz* ('Geat') and *friþuz* ('peace'). It has been in regular use since the Middle Ages and became especially common in the 20th century.