Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Harrison”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Harrison is of English origin, and its usage dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from the given name of an ancestor. Specifically, Harrison means “son of Harry.” The name Harry itself is a medieval form of Henry, originating from the Germanic name Heimrich, which means “home ruler.” Harrison was initially used as a surname but transitioned into a popular given name over time.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Harrison holds the meaning “son of Harry,” which carries connotations of heritage and familial legacy. As with many patronymic surnames, the name signifies ancestral connections and roots. It reflects qualities like strong organizational skills, comforting presence, and commanding strength. These characteristics align with the keywords such as strong, organized, strength, comfort, comforting, commanding, and defender, suggesting a person who is both a protector and a source of strength.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Harrison

1. Harrison Ford

• Historical Era: 20th and 21st Century
• Key Contributions: Renowned American actor known for roles in iconic films such as the “Star Wars” series and the “Indiana Jones” franchise.
• Cultural Impact: Harrison Ford is not only celebrated for his acting skills but also for his humanitarian efforts, making his name synonymous with both talent and compassion.

2. William Henry Harrison

• Historical Era: 18th and 19th Century
• Key Contributions: The 9th President of the United States and a military officer.
• Cultural Impact: His presidency was tragically short-lived due to his death from pneumonia just 31 days after taking office, making him the shortest-serving U.S. president. However, his military and political career left a lasting imprint on American history.

Usage Over Time

Harrison has seen varied usage over the years. In the late 19th and early 20th century, it was more commonly used as a surname. However, in recent decades, it has gained popularity as a given name. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA) data, Harrison has consistently been one of the more popular names in the United States, especially from the 1980s to the present day.

Pronunciation Guide

Harrison is phonetically spelled as HARE-uh-suhn. The emphasis is on the first syllable “HARE,” with the remaining syllables pronounced softer. This clear and straightforward pronunciation makes the name easy to remember and articulate.

Biblical Context

The name Harrison does not have direct biblical references, as it is more of an English surname turned given name. However, its root “Harry” is a diminutive of Henry, which in turn can be linked to the Germanic Heimrich, interpreted as “home ruler.” While not explicitly biblical, names incorporating themes of leadership and protection resonate with several biblical figures who were leaders and protectors of their people.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Harrison resonates with the number 7. This number is associated with introspection, intellectual pursuit, and a deep understanding of the world.

Variations

Variants of the name Harrison include Harris (a shorter form and surname variant) and Harison (a less common spelling).

Cultural Variants

In other languages and cultures, Harrison may take on localized forms or pronunciations, but its core meaning remains consistent.

Popularity Information

Harrison has maintained a steady presence in the top 100 names for boys in the United States over the past few decades. According to the SSA, it has risen in popularity particularly in the 2000s and 2010s, reflecting a trend towards traditional and strong-sounding names.

Tags

This guide aims to provide expectant mothers with a comprehensive understanding of the name Harrison, emphasizing its rich historical background, cultural significance, and resonant qualities.