MallowbyNames

Ory

OH-ree · Of uncertain origin; possibly from the Hebrew meaning 'my light' or a short form of names like Orson.

Peak popularity
1986
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Ory since 1919

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

71522192019602000Most births 1986Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s5
1920s0
1930s0
1940s0
1950s7
1960s0
1970s0
1980s86
1990s41
2000s0
2010s8
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Ory is a rare and concise name that has maintained a steady but low profile in American baby name records. First recorded in 1919, it has never broken into the top 1,000, indicating its enduring but niche appeal. The name reached its peak usage in 1986, and since then its trajectory has remained remarkably stable, neither rising nor falling dramatically. While no top states specifically favor Ory, its usage appears scattered across the country. Its etymology is uncertain, with Hebrew roots in 'my light' being the most plausible derivation, though it may also be a diminutive of Orson. Ory's brevity and soft sound make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet accessible name.

The name Ory is likely derived from Hebrew 'אוֹרִי' (Ori), meaning 'my light,' though it may also be a short form of Orson (from Latin ursus 'bear') or a modern diminutive. It has been used primarily as a masculine given name in Jewish communities and occasionally in English-speaking contexts. Its usage in the United States has been sparse but stable since the early 20th century.

Nicknames & variants

Variants: Ori, Orry

Sibling names for Ory

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

Sisters: Maya, Zara, Lila, Talia, Noa

Brothers: Eli, Noah, Levi, Micah, Jonah

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

O is for Ory, our favorite little boy.

O is for Ory…”

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

Make Ory's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Ory mean?
Ory is of uncertain origin but is often thought to mean 'my light' from Hebrew.
How popular is the name Ory?
Ory has never ranked in the top 1,000 for U.S. births, but it has been in consistent low-level use since the 1910s. It peaked in 1986, with a stable trajectory through 2025.
Is Ory a boy's or girl's name?
Ory is primarily masculine, though it could be considered unisex.