Ava Kowalski

By Ava Kowalski
Global Naming Traditions Specialist

Updated on September 03, 2024

Garrison

US Popularity Rank: 3481

Origin: German

Meaning: Son of Gerard or Gerald; Brave spear; Brave ruler; Protection; Fortified stronghold

A posher take on Gary, Garrison is a powerful boy’s name with British roots. Coming from Gerard or Gerald, it was a last name signifying “son of Gerard” or “son of Gerald.” It, in turn, stemmed from the meanings “brave spear” or “brave ruler.” Garrison also denotes “protection” or “fortified stronghold,” as, in military terms, the garrison is given to the base which holds soldiers. Similar to Harrison, Garrison is a trendy-sounding name that is perhaps more appealing in the modern era. Of course, the name also provides the more common nickname of Gary or even Sunny.