What does Parker mean and where does it come from?
Parker is traditionally a surname of English origin that has become increasingly popular as a first name for both genders, especially females. The name stems from the Old French 'parc,' referring to someone who was a keeper or caretaker of a park or enclosure. It has gained popularity in the modern
Cultural significance
Parker has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of keeper of the park.
Peak popularity
Reached #72 in 2015 — currently #91 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Parker?
Parker works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Parker Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Parker Rose
Floral · soft ending
Parker Mae
Sweet · timeless
Parker Claire
French influence · crisp
Parker Jane
Literary · strong
Parker Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Parker right now?
Holding steady — currently #91 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #91 | 3,802 | ▲ up 3 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #94 | 3,858 | ▼ down 1 |
| 2021 | #93 | 3,842 | ▲ up 2 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #95 | 3,797 | ▼ down 23 · -30% births |
| 2015 | #72 | 5,408 | ▲ up 13 · +14% births |
| 2010 | #85 | 4,731 | ▲ up 34 · +39% births |
| 2005 | #119 | 3,403 | ▲ up 8 · +10% births |
| 2000 | #127 | 3,099 | ▲ up 89 · +127% births |
| 1995 | #216 | 1,368 | ▲ up 126 · +89% births |
| 1990 | #342 | 723 | ▲ up 150 · +133% births |
| 1985 | #492 | 310 | ▲ up 268 · +133% births |
| 1980 | #760 | 133 | ▲ up 567 · +209% births |
| 1975 | #1327 | 43 | ▼ down 283 · -30% births |
| 1970 | #1044 | 61 | ▼ down 95 · +2% births |
| 1965 | #949 | 60 | — |
The story of Parker
Parker has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #72 in 2015. More than 132,840 babies have been named Parker since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #498 in 1880 to #91 in 2023. Parker is used for both genders: 16% female and 84% male.
Names that peaked alongside Parker in 2015:
Parker by decade
Parker peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 112 | |
| 1890s | 134 | |
| 1900s | 143 | |
| 1910s | 546 | |
| 1920s | 728 | |
| 1930s | 559 | |
| 1940s | 578 | |
| 1950s | 567 | |
| 1960s | 523 | |
| 1970s | 652 | |
| 1980s | 2,909 | |
| 1990s | 17,176 | |
| 2000s | 39,888 | |
| 2010s ★ | 62,397 | |
| 2020s | 5,928 | |
What are good nicknames for Parker?
What names sound and feel like Parker?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Parker also consider these
Common questions about the name Parker
What does the name Parker mean?
Parker means "keeper of the park" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Parker?
Parker is currently ranked #91 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Parker?
Parker originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Parker?
Parker is a two-syllable name pronounced P AA1 R K ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Parker more of a girl or boy name?
Parker is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.