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Parker Unisex

Popularity: #96 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationPAR-ker / /ˈpɑːrkər/

English; French

Meaning

English: park keeper; French: one who lives near a park

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Parker originates from the Old French word "parquier," which means "keeper of the park." This term itself derives from the Latin "parcus," meaning "enclosed area" or "park." The name was introduced into England following the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, where it was used as a surname for individuals who managed parks or game preserves, particularly for the nobility. Over time, it transitioned from a surname to a given name, particularly in the 19th century, as surnames began to be adopted as first names in English-speaking cultures.

Historically, the name Parker has been borne by notable figures, including Parker of the 16th century, who was a prominent English cleric and scholar. The name also appears in various literary works, contributing to its recognition. For instance, it is mentioned in the context of English literature during the Renaissance, a period marked by a resurgence of interest in classical learning and the arts. The name's association with stewardship and guardianship of nature resonates with the cultural values of the time, emphasizing the importance of land and nature in English society.

Culturally, Parker has been associated with themes of protection and care, reflecting the responsibilities of those who held the title of park keeper. This connection to nature and stewardship has allowed the name to endure through centuries. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Park" have emerged, although they are less commonly used. The name Parker's historical significance and its roots in the management of land and nature have contributed to its lasting presence in English-speaking cultures.

Trend Summary

Parker has experienced a steady increase in popularity in the United States, particularly since the late 20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Park
  • Parke

International Variants

  • Parker (English)

Famous people named Parker

Parker Posey is an actress best known for Dazed and Confused, Best in Show, and The House of Yes.

Parker Stevenson is an actor best known for The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, Baywatch, and The Island.

Fictional characters named Parker

Parker is a fictional character from the comic book series Parker: The Hunter. He is a professional thief known for his cunning and strategic planning in heists.

Parker is a fictional character from the TV series Leverage. They are a skilled thief and con artist who uses their talents to help those in need.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Parker was first seen in the United States in 1880. Parker has ranked as high as #105 nationally, which occurred in 2014, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Ohio, Florida, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Parker has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Parker (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 336
10%
CA 238
7%
FL 190
6%
OH 170
5%
PA 159
5%
NY 137
4%
MI 134
4%
NC 127
4%
GA 122
4%
TN 119
3%
IL 113
3%
IN 102
3%
VA 98
3%
MO 93
3%
LA 82
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188014
188112
188214
18838
18849
18856
188611
188714
188811
188913
189012
189115
189210
189313
189420
189515
189616
189710
189814
18999
190017
19019
19028
190316
190425
190514
190616
19078
190813
190917
191015
191115
191234
191352
191455
191572
191662
191767
191882
191992
192064
192166
192276
192372
192478
192576
192661
192776
192874
192985
193050
193156
193267
193359
193459
193553
193651
193746
193856
193962
194064
194154
194250
194363
194443
194552
194657
194775
194869
194951
195061
195162
195260
195357
195460
195551
195654
195767
195840
195956
196054
196155
196257
196355
196451
196560
196638
196738
196863
196953
197061
197166
197247
197332
197428
197543
197648
197766
1978108
1979134
1980133
1981135
1982152
1983209
1984244
1985310
1986338
1987333
1988418
1989529
1990724
1991884
19921,118
19931,156
19941,250
19951,368
19961,797
19972,298
19982,629
19993,011
20003,099
20013,187
20023,099
20033,186
20043,063
20053,404
20063,667
20074,076
20084,321
20094,626
20104,732
20115,296
20125,370
20135,672
20145,720
20155,418
20164,729
20174,381
20184,006
20193,906
20203,811
20213,842
20223,858
20233,802
20243,605