All about the name HARPER

Meaning, origin, history.

Harper is a unisex given name of English origin. It was initially used as a surname before being adopted as a given name in the late 20th century. The name Harper is derived from the Old English word "harper," which means "harp player." This name was traditionally given to people who played the harp or were involved in music in some way.

The popularity of the name Harper can be attributed to several factors. In literature, Harper is the surname of the protagonist in "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. Additionally, many celebrities have chosen this name for their children, further popularizing it. For example, actor David Duchovny and actress Busy Philipps both have daughters named Harper.

While Harper was once more commonly used as a boy's name, it has recently become more popular for girls as well. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Harper was the 438th most popular name for boys in the United States in 2019, but it ranked much higher at number 7 for girls.

In terms of meaning and symbolism, the name Harper is often associated with creativity, music, and art. This is likely due to its connection to the harp, an instrument that has been used throughout history to create beautiful melodies. Additionally, the name Harper may be seen as a nod to the literary world, given its use in "To Kill a Mockingbird."

Overall, the name Harper is a unique and distinctive choice for a child's name. Its English origins and musical associations give it a rich history and meaning, while its recent popularity among celebrities makes it a contemporary option as well. Whether used for a boy or girl, Harper is sure to make a memorable and impressive addition to any list of names.