Foster: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Foster mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Old French: Forest keeper
English: One who provides care or nourishment
Latin: To nourish

Gender: Male

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Foster is pronounced faws-ter

Foster is of English origin and means "one who provides care or nourishment." It reflects a supportive and nurturing essence, making it a name that evokes warmth and compassion.

Boy name variations

Family name origins & meanings

English: reduced form of Forster.

English: nickname from Middle English foster "foster parent" (Old English fōstre, a derivative of fōstrian "to nourish or rear").

Jewish: probably an Americanized form of one or more like-sounding Jewish surnames, such as Forster.

This name was brought to North America by many different bearers from the 17th century onward. Thomas Foster (1640–79) is buried in the old burial ground in Cambridge, MA. John Foster, born 1648 in Dorchester, MA, was the earliest wood engraver in America.

Famous people with this last name

Jodie Foster

Foster in Pop Culture

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

Foster from Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends - A friendly and imaginative character who resides in a whimsical home filled with imaginary friends, showcasing the value of creativity and friendship.
Foster from GO Jetters - Foster is a cheerful and adventurous character who loves exploring the world and teaching his friends about geography and teamwork.

Popularity of the Name Foster

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Foster has experienced a steady yet modest presence in baby name statistics over the years. While it has fluctuated, it has never fallen out of the top 1000 names in the United States, often associated with strong family values and tradition. Its etymology traces back to an Old French origin meaning "to nourish" or "to nurture," making it a meaningful choice for many parents. Notable personalities like Foster Brooks, Jodie Foster, and the popular music artist Foster the People have also contributed to its visibility in contemporary culture.