Parker, an occupational surname turned stylish first name, has been steadily gaining popularity among parents. Its appeal lies in its blend of approachability and sophistication, a rare quality that allows it to age gracefully. While its roots extend back centuries, its surge in usage is a decidedly modern phenomenon. Parker fits seamlessly alongside contemporary choices like Jace and Kayden, yet boasts a longer history than either.
The name Parker carries a strong sense of history and positive associations. Consider Parker Mitchell, co-founder of Engineers Without Borders, an organization dedicated to combating global poverty. Or Parker Palmer, the esteemed author and activist advocating for stronger community bonds – spiritual, social, and communal. The world of sports also boasts Parkers, from golfer Parker McLachlin to race car driver Parker Johnstone, further solidifying its connection to accomplishment and dynamism.
Parker finds itself comfortably within the "preppy" name trend, a group that includes Preston, Cameron, and Sawyer. It exudes a refined air without feeling overly formal or detached, a balance that sets it apart from some more elaborate choices. Furthermore, it taps into the word name trend, with the readily available nicknames of Park and Parks enhancing its overall charm. This versatility makes Parker a grounded yet spirited option, ideal for an active and engaged young boy. The etymological roots of the name reinforce this image. Parker originates from the Middle English term "parker," denoting a park keeper or someone who was responsible for maintaining a park. This connection to nature and stewardship adds another layer to the name’s appeal.
(Image of baby boy with the name Parker)
Parker Name Popularity: A Statistical Journey
Just how popular is the name Parker? Let’s explore its trajectory through the years using data from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1912 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1913 | 1,033 | 5 | 0.0009% |
| 1914 | 1,168 | 6 | 0.0009% |
| 1915 | 1,068 | 11 | 0.0012% |
| 1916 | 1,506 | 5 | 0.0005% |
| 1917 | 992 | 16 | 0.0016% |
| 1918 | 920 | 22 | 0.002% |
| 1919 | 706 | 43 | 0.0041% |
| 1920 | 1,161 | 12 | 0.0011% |
| 1921 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1922 | 1,105 | 14 | 0.0013% |
| 1923 | 1,227 | 10 | 0.0009% |
| 1924 | 960 | 22 | 0.0019% |
| 1925 | 852 | 29 | 0.0026% |
| 1926 | 1,090 | 14 | 0.0013% |
| 1927 | 824 | 32 | 0.0029% |
| 1928 | 963 | 20 | 0.0019% |
| 1929 | 838 | 28 | 0.0027% |
| 1930 | 1,054 | 15 | 0.0014% |
| 1931 | 1,392 | 5 | 0.0005% |
| 1932 | 1,289 | 6 | 0.0006% |
| 1933 | 1,049 | 12 | 0.0013% |
| 1934 | 872 | 21 | 0.0022% |
| 1935 | 1,064 | 12 | 0.0012% |
| 1936 | 1,105 | 10 | 0.001% |
| 1937 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1938 | 1,038 | 12 | 0.0012% |
| 1939 | 1,407 | 5 | 0.0005% |
| 1940 | 887 | 20 | 0.0019% |
| 1941 | 926 | 18 | 0.0016% |
| 1942 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1943 | 1,074 | 12 | 0.0009% |
| 1944 | 1,350 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1945 | 1,301 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1946 | 1,095 | 12 | 0.0008% |
| 1947 | 1,230 | 10 | 0.0006% |
| 1948 | 1,160 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1949 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1950 | 1,220 | 10 | 0.0006% |
| 1951 | 1,191 | 10 | 0.0006% |
| 1952 | 1,528 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1953 | 1,067 | 16 | 0.0009% |
| 1954 | 1,418 | 6 | 0.0003% |
| 1955 | 1,401 | 6 | 0.0003% |
| 1956 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1957 | 1,122 | 15 | 0.0008% |
| 1958 | 1,600 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1959 | 1,107 | 17 | 0.0009% |
| 1960 | 1,144 | 15 | 0.0008% |
| 1961 | 1,108 | 17 | 0.0009% |
| 1962 | 1,106 | 16 | 0.0009% |
| 1963 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1964 | 1,276 | 10 | 0.0006% |
| 1965 | 1,116 | 15 | 0.0009% |
| 1966 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1967 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1968 | 905 | 29 | 0.0019% |
| 1969 | 1,025 | 23 | 0.0015% |
| 1970 | 1,181 | 18 | 0.0011% |
| 1971 | 1,214 | 16 | 0.0011% |
| 1972 | 1,312 | 12 | 0.0009% |
| 1973 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1974 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1975 | 1,755 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1976 | 1,312 | 14 | 0.0011% |
| 1977 | 1,164 | 21 | 0.0016% |
| 1978 | 986 | 35 | 0.0026% |
| 1979 | 840 | 63 | 0.0045% |
| 1980 | 836 | 69 | 0.0047% |
| 1981 | 847 | 64 | 0.0044% |
| 1982 | 860 | 63 | 0.0042% |
| 1983 | 636 | 131 | 0.0089% |
| 1984 | 564 | 176 | 0.0118% |
| 1985 | 491 | 270 | 0.0178% |
| 1986 | 484 | 282 | 0.0187% |
| 1987 | 487 | 288 | 0.0189% |
| 1988 | 437 | 382 | 0.0245% |
| 1989 | 400 | 493 | 0.0306% |
| 1990 | 340 | 690 | 0.0416% |
| 1991 | 293 | 845 | 0.0518% |
| 1992 | 255 | 1,099 | 0.0689% |
| 1993 | 246 | 1,137 | 0.0729% |
| 1994 | 238 | 1,239 | 0.0807% |
| 1995 | 216 | 1,348 | 0.0894% |
| 1996 | 179 | 1,789 | 0.1195% |
| 1997 | 149 | 2,285 | 0.1545% |
| 1998 | 142 | 2,610 | 0.1744% |
| 1999 | 124 | 2,997 | 0.2001% |
| 2000 | 127 | 3,093 | 0.2025% |
| 2001 | 122 | 3,181 | 0.2111% |
| 2002 | 126 | 3,091 | 0.2063% |
| 2003 | 125 | 3,177 | 0.2088% |
| 2004 | 131 | 3,060 | 0.2008% |
| 2005 | 119 | 3,399 | 0.2223% |
| 2006 | 116 | 3,658 | 0.2336% |
| 2007 | 108 | 4,067 | 0.2578% |
| 2008 | 103 | 4,311 | 0.2789% |
| 2009 | 96 | 4,621 | 0.3092% |
| 2010 | 85 | 4,730 | 0.3282% |
| 2011 | 79 | 5,284 | 0.3709% |
| 2012 | 81 | 5,357 | 0.3759% |
| 2013 | 74 | 5,663 | 0.3977% |
| 2014 | 73 | 5,708 | 0.3918% |
| 2015 | 72 | 5,404 | 0.3714% |
| 2016 | 87 | 4,708 | 0.3265% |
| 2017 | 90 | 4,346 | 0.3114% |
| 2018 | 96 | 3,968 | 0.2888% |
| 2019 | 98 | 3,878 | 0.2865% |
| 2020 | 94 | 3,715 | 0.2919% |
| 2021 | 92 | 3,823 | 0.3127% |
| 2022 | 94 | 3,752 | 0.2844% |
| 2023 | 90 | 3,802 | 0.2938% |
As the data reveals, Parker has experienced a significant climb in popularity over the last few decades, reaching its peak in the mid-2010s and remaining a consistent choice since.
Names Similar to Parker
If you admire the style of Parker, consider these comparable names:
- Carter: Meaning "cart user," sharing the occupational surname vibe.
- Cooper: Another occupational name meaning "barrel maker."
- Davis: A classic surname name meaning "son of David."
- Dylan: A Welsh name meaning "great tide," offering a similar contemporary feel.
- Grayson: Meaning "son of the steward," fitting the surname trend.
- Jackson: "Son of Jack," a popular and versatile choice.
- Paxton: "Poecc’s settlement," another strong surname option.
- Preston: "Priest’s town," part of the preppy name movement.
- Ryan: Irish, meaning "little king"
- Wyatt: English, meaning "Brave in battle"
Diminutives: Parke, Parkes, Parks, Parkin, Parkman
Parker is more than just a name; it’s a statement of style, history, and enduring appeal.