Parker is a surname of English origin that is derived from the Middle English word "park," which means "game park" or "enclosure." The name originally referred to someone who lived near or worked in a park, or it could have been an occupational name for a park keeper.
The Parker family history can be traced back to the early medieval period in England. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name is in the Domesday Book of 1086, where a certain Richard Parker is listed as holding lands in Northumberland. Throughout the centuries, the Parker name has been carried by many notable individuals, including several members of Parliament and prominent figures in the Church of England.
Today, Parker is not only a popular surname but also a unisex given name. It has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. While it may have started as an occupational or locational surname, over time, Parker has evolved into a distinct given name with its own unique identity.
In terms of meaning, Parker is associated with the concepts of nature, growth, and nurturing. As it originates from the word "park," it evokes images of lush green spaces, wildlife, and fresh air. This connection to the natural world can make Parker an appealing choice for parents looking for a name that reflects their appreciation for the environment.
Overall, Parker is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history behind it. Whether used as a surname or given name, it carries with it a sense of timelessness and connection to the past while also being suitable for modern times. Its meaning and origins make it a fitting choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Parker has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, as indicated by the statistics provided.
Between 1970 and 1986, there were fewer than 15 births per year with the name Parker. However, starting from 1987, there was a notable rise in its popularity, with more than 15 births each year.
The years between 1991 and 2003 saw a steady increase in the number of babies named Parker, with around 50 to 400 births per year. The trend continued to rise significantly from 2004 onwards, reaching over 600 births per year by 2008.
The peak popularity for the name Parker was reached between 2018 and 2022, with more than 2,000 births per year each of those years. Specifically:
* In 2018, there were 1764 births
* In 2019, there were 1976 births
* In 2020, there were 2146 births
* In 2021, there were 2420 births
* In 2022, there were 2407 births
Overall, between 1970 and 2023, the name Parker has been given to a total of 27819 babies in the United States. This significant increase in popularity over time suggests that Parker is now one of the more common names for boys in the country.
This information can be useful for parents looking for popular boy's names or those interested in tracking naming trends over time. It also demonstrates how a name's popularity can change dramatically within a few decades, highlighting the fluidity of naming conventions in society.