Harrison

Origin

Old English origin from 'Harry' (a diminutive of Henry) combined with 'son'. The name appears in English records from the Middle Ages and became popular as a surname before transitioning into given name use. No significant Aboriginal or Māori roots are associated with this name.

Meaning

'Son of Harry' or 'son of Henry'. In Australian English, it carries connotations of strength and reliability, often linked to historical figures and contemporary personalities.

Pronunciation

/ˈhærɪsən/ (HARR-ih-sən), with the stress on the first syllable in Australian English pronunciation, commonly articulated as /ˈhærɪs(ə)n/ in IPA, with an emphasis on the first syllable.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 01 July (Australia Day, national celebration)
• Various saints' feast days in the Catholic calendar, such as 13 July (St. Henry) and 16 July (Our Lady of Mount Carmel) — observed predominantly in culturally Irish and Catholic families.
• 25 December (Christmas, broadly celebrated in Australia, though not a dedicated name day)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with harrison:

• Eleanor and Harrison
• Charlotte and Harrison
• Oliver and Harrison

Fun Facts

• The surname Harrison is famously associated with the 9th US President William Henry Harrison, illustrating its transatlantic spread.
• In Australian music history, singer Shannon Noll’s full name is Shannon Noll Harrison.
• Harrison is a popular name for Australian characters in novels and TV shows, often depicted as dependable and straightforward.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name harrison:

• Reliable
• Trustworthy
• Traditional
• Loyal

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has a classic, balanced look with a straightforward typographic appeal in Australian English, often associated with traditional values yet adaptable in modern styles.

Geographical Distribution

Most common in urban areas such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with historic roots in regions settled by English immigrants during colonisation. Less prevalent in remote or Indigenous communities.

Numerological Significance

Name number 8, associated with ambition, leadership, and material success, aligning with the trustworthy connotation of the name in Australian culture.

Astrological Connections

Linked with the zodiac sign Capricorn, representing ambition, discipline, and perseverance, qualities often attributed to bearers of the name in Australian narratives.

Historical Context

Notable Australian bearers include Harrison Craig, a singer who gained fame via 'The Voice Australia,' and the Harrison family who historically served in various public roles.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name maintains its form across English-speaking countries; in non-English contexts, it may be adapted phonetically but remains recognisably similar.

Famous People Named harrison

• William Henry Harrison (18th US President)
• Harrison Ford (American actor, popular in Australian media)
• Harrison Craig (Australian singer)

Popularity in Australia