Barker Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationBAR-ker / /ˈbɑːrkər/English; Occupational
Meaning
English: dweller by the brook; Occupational: baker
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Barker has its roots in Old English, deriving from the term "bearc," which means "a person who works with bark" or "a bark worker." This occupational surname was likely used to denote someone involved in the trade of tree bark, which was historically significant for various uses, including tanning leather and making ropes. The name evolved through Middle English as "Barker," maintaining its association with the profession. As surnames became hereditary in England during the late Middle Ages, Barker transitioned from a descriptor of occupation to a family name, becoming established in various regions of England by the 13th century.
Historically, the name Barker is noted in various records, including the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears in different forms, indicating the presence of individuals engaged in related trades. The name has also been associated with several notable figures throughout history, including John Barker, a 17th-century English poet, and various local gentry and landowners in England. The name's presence in historical texts and documents underscores its long-standing significance in English culture.
Culturally, the surname Barker has been linked to themes of craftsmanship and connection to nature, reflecting the importance of trades in medieval society. The name has also been adopted in various forms across different cultures, sometimes appearing as a given name or in diminutive forms. Its enduring nature can be attributed to the historical significance of the trade it represents, as well as its integration into English-speaking societies, where surnames often carry a legacy of occupation and lineage.
Trend Summary
The name Barker has seen limited use as a given name in the United States, with occasional spikes in popularity.
Similar Names
Variants
- Barkar
International Variants
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Famous people named Barker
Barker is a British television presenter best known for The Price Is Right and The Generation Game.
Barker is a Canadian actor best known for his roles in The Last House on the Left and The Dead Zone.
Fictional characters named Barker
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Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Barker was first seen in the United States in 1913. Barker has ranked as high as #1349 nationally, which occurred in 2020, and has been most popular in . In the past 5 years the name Barker has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Barker
No state data available for this year.
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1913 | 5 |
1920 | 6 |
2015 | 5 |
2020 | 7 |
2023 | 5 |