Harriet
Harriet is a girl name of German origin meaning “Home ruler”, pronounced HAIR-ee-et. It ranked #1073 in the United States in 2025, given to 226 babies, and peaked at #73 in 1880. Common nicknames: Hattie, Hettie, Harry.
How popular is Harriet in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Harriet mean, and where does it come from?
Harriet is the English form of Henriette, the French feminine of Henry — Germanic heim, "home," and ric, "ruler." Its American weight comes from two women: Harriet Tubman, who led some seventy people out of slavery on the Underground Railroad, and Harriet Beecher Stowe, whose novel Abraham Lincoln is said to have credited with starting a war. The name stood at 73rd in 1880, spent most of the twentieth century out of favour and has come back strongly in Britain and Australia, with the United States some way behind.
How is Harriet used around the world?
Harriet is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 4+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Harriet?
Famous People Named Harriet
- Harriet Tubman — American abolitionist who led enslaved people to freedom on the Underground Railroad
- Harriet Beecher Stowe — American author of Uncle Tom's Cabin
- Harriet Martineau — English writer, often called the first woman sociologist
Similar Names to Harriet
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Sibling Name Ideas for Harriet
Looking for names that pair well with Harriet? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Harriet mean?
Harriet is a girl name of German origin meaning "Home ruler." Harriet is the English form of Henriette, the French feminine of Henry — Germanic heim, "home," and ric, "ruler." Its American weight comes from two women: Harriet Tubman, who led some seventy people out of slavery on the Underground Railroad, and Harriet Beecher Stowe, whose novel Abraham Lincoln is said to have credited with starting a war.
How do you pronounce Harriet?
Harriet is pronounced HAIR-ee-et. Common variations include Harriett, Henriette, Harriette.
Is Harriet a girl name?
Yes, Harriet is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Hattie, Hettie, Harry.