Harper: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Harper mean and stand for as a girl;s name?

Meaning:

English: Harp player
Old English: Harpist
Scottish: One who plays the harp

Gender: Female, unisex

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Harper is pronounced har-per

The name Harper has its origins in the Old English word harpere, which means harp or harpist. It was originally an occupational surname given to those who played the harp. Over time, the name has evolved into a popular first name for both boys and girls, celebrated for its musical connotations and modern flair.

Girl name variations

Boy name origins & meanings

Old Norse: Whaler

What does Harper mean and stand for as a boy's name?

Meaning:

English: Harp player
Old English: Harpist
Scottish: One who plays the harp

Gender: Male, unisex

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Harper is pronounced har-per

The name Harper originally comes from the Middle English word harpere meaning a harp player. Traditionally, it referred to someone who played the harp, a popular instrument during that era. Though once more common as a surname, Harper has transitioned into a unisex first name, gaining increased popularity for both boys and girls.

Boy name variations

Family name origins & meanings

English, Scottish, and Irish: occupational name for a player on the harp, from an agent derivative of Middle English, Middle Dutch harp "harp." The harper was one of the most important figures of a medieval baronial hall, especially in Scotland and Northern England, and the office of harper was sometimes hereditary. The Scottish surname is probably an Anglicized form of Gaelic Mac Chruiteir "son of the harper" (from Gaelic cruit "harp", "stringed instrument"). This surname has long been present in Ireland.

Famous people with this last name

Ben Harper

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Harper in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Harper Finkle from Wizards of Waverly Place - Harper is the quirky and lovable best friend of Alex Russo, known for her eccentric fashion sense and loyal personality.
Harper Lee from Stargirl - Although she shares a name with the famous author, this Harper is a character in the Stargirl TV series, known for being a loyal friend with a strong personality.
Harper Dearing from NCIS - Harper Dearing is a villainous character known for his intense desire for revenge, which leads him to become a significant antagonist on the show.
Harper Pitt from Angels in America - Harper Pitt is a troubled housewife struggling with mental health issues and a failing marriage, making her a complex and compelling character.
Harper Grace from All the Bright Places - Harper Grace appears as a character in the novel, characterized by her emotional depth and significant impact on the protagonist's life.

Popularity of the Name Harper

According to Social Security Administration data, Harper has been a consistently popular name in the United States, ranking among the top 10 most popular names for girls in recent years. It has gained widespread appeal due to its modern yet classic feel.

Notable individuals with the name Harper include author Harper Lee, famous for her novel To Kill a Mockingbird. In entertainment, actresses such as Laura Dern and Neil Patrick Harris have chosen Harper for their children. The name has also appeared in popular culture, with Harper being a character's name in the TV series Wizards of Waverly Place and the movie The Last Song.