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Jeffrey

Boy name · 222 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Jeffrey: 222 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 21 births in 1974.

Of Germanic origin, Jeffrey is a variant of Geoffrey, meaning “peaceful pledge” from the elements *gawia* (territory) and *frid* (peace). It arrived in Scotland via Norman influence, often interchangeable with Geoffrey in medieval records. Notable bearers include actor Jeff Bridges, Oscar-winning star of *The Big Lebowski*, and bestselling author Jeffrey Archer. While no major place is directly named after a Jeffrey, the name’s root appears in places like Gifford (from “Geoffrey’s ford”). A familiar variant is Geoffrey itself, and the short form Jeff is one of the most enduring nicknames of the 20th century. In Scotland, Jeffrey never reached the top ranks but has been steadily used since the 1970s.