National Terry Day is celebrated on April 22 each year. Terry is a masculine and feminine first name. It’s derived from the French Thierry, but may also be a short form of Theresa, Terrell, or Terrence. Sometimes it’s spelled as Teri, as in the case of actress Teri Hatcher. In some rare instances, Terry is a surname, as seen with English soccer player John Terry. With over 550,000 people named Terry in the United States alone, it’s clear this is one of the most famous names in the country.
History of National Terry Day
The name Terry has roots in various languages, including French, German, Greek, Roman, and even ancient Gaelic and Anglo cultures. Many notable figures have borne this name through the years. Author Terry Pratchett is undoubtedly the most famous of them all. Born Terence David John Pratchett on April 28, 1948, he was an only child bullied for having a speech impediment. Growing up, Pratchett developed a keen interest in astronomy, was an avid member of his school’s debate society, and wrote short stories for the school newspaper.
Believing he lacked the intelligence to become an astronomer, Pratchett delved into the world of science fiction, becoming enamored with the genre. His first book, “The Carpet People,” was published in 1971, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that it became trendy among fantasy readers. His next book, “The Color of Magic,” came out in 1983 and was the first in his now-famous “Discworld” series. By the mid-90s, Pratchett was a U.K.s bestselling author, with a cult following. He received a knighthood in 2009 for his services to literature.
Closer home, Terry Alan Crews found success on the gridiron and the T.V. screen. During his career in the N.F.L., Crews played as a defensive end and linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams, San Diego Chargers, and Washington Redskins. Despite his massive frame, he was constantly getting cut from rosters. In 1997, Crews retired from the N.F.L. to pursue a career in Hollywood. His first big break came in the movie “Friday After Next” (2002), followed by his famous role in “White Chicks” (2004). After an appearance in “The Longest Yard” (2005), Crews landed the part of Julius Rock in the comedy “Everybody Hates Chris,” making it his most prominent role and getting prime exposure on primetime T.V. He cemented his place as a bonafide comedy actor with no formal training.
National Terry Day timeline
The name, Terry, becomes one of America's Top 100 most favored boy names.
Terry Bradshaw is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
“The Times” declares Terry Pratchett as U.K. bestselling author.
Teri Hatcher wins ‘Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy T.V. Series.’
National Terry Day FAQs
What does the name Terry mean?
‘Terry’ means “power of the tribe.”
Is Terry Irish or Scottish?
Terry is an English and Irish name.
What is the ethnicity of the name Terry?
The name Terry can be of both Gaelic and Anglo origin.
National Terry Day Activities
Read a book by a Terry
Have you ever read the works of Terry Pratchett? Now’s your chance. Leafing through “The Carpet People” is the perfect introduction to this author’s brilliant imagination.
Watch a Terry
Do you like dramas and comedies? Check out Teri Hatcher in “Desperate Housewives.” If comedy is more your style, tune into “Brooklyn 99” with Lieutenant Terry Jeffords, played by Terry Crews.
Thank a Terry
If you know a Terry, reach out to them. It doesn’t matter what your relationship with them is. Let them know today is their special day.
5 Interesting Facts About Famous Terrys
The most famous Terry
English novelist, Terry Pratchett, is ranked as one of the world’s most famous personalities named Terry.
The multi-talented Terry
American football player Terry Bradshaw was not only an athlete but also a sports commentator, storyteller, and musician.
A gender-neutral name
Terry is both a masculine and feminine name, with alternative spellings.
The various changes
Politician Terry Carpenter changed his party five times before getting elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
The cheerleader
Actress Teri Hatcher was once a cheerleader for the San Francisco 49ers.
Why We Love National Terry Day
It’s significance
The name Terry signifies the love of freedom and a free-spirited nature. No wonder so many actors and entertainers are called Terry.
It’s gender neutral
There aren’t enough gender-neutral names to go around. We need to appreciate the ones we have.
It’s a nickname and a standalone name
Any name that works by itself or as a diminutive deserves recognition and fame. Terry happens to be one of those names that work both ways.
National Terry Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 22 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 22 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 22 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 22 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 22 | Sunday |
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