Baker

♂ Boy

Pronounced BAY-ker /ˈbeɪkər/High

Meaning: One who bakes; an occupational surname for a baker of breadHigh

In 30 seconds: A cheerful English occupational surname meaning 'one who bakes.' Baker is friendly, warm, and approachable — a surname name with the same cool simplicity as Cooper or Carter, but fresher.

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Origin HighEnglish

MeaningOne who bakes; an occupational surname for a baker of bread

U.S. rank (2025)#217 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births1,640 boys (0.09% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2025

Total births (all-time)≈ 8,231

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Baker is an Old English occupational surname derived from baecere, one who bakes bread. Occupational surnames became hereditary in England during the 13th and 14th centuries, and Baker was among the most widespread because of the importance of bakers in every community. The Worshipful Company of Bakers, one of the oldest livery companies in London, traces its history to the 12th century.

As a given name, Baker gained traction in the United States in the 21st century alongside other occupational surname names like Cooper, Carter, and Fletcher. It carries a warm, wholesome character that belies its professional origin.

Did you know? Baker is one of the most common English-language surnames, ranking among the top 20 in both the United States and the United Kingdom — a reflection of just how essential the trade was in medieval communities.

Overall data confidence 95%

Behind the Name — Baker — etymology notesU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

Baxter

Nicknames

BakeBay

Famous Bearers

★Baker Mayfield (1995–present)
American NFL quarterback, former first overall draft pick of the Cleveland Browns.

If you like Baker…

Cooper— Old English occupational surname name with the same two-syllable cool

Carter— popular occupational surname name with the same friendly, rugged feel

Fletcher— medieval English trade name with the same strong consonant energy

Sawyer— occupational surname name with the same breezy, modern wearability

Frequently Asked

What does the name Baker mean?

Baker is an Old English occupational name meaning 'one who bakes bread,' derived from baecere.

How do you pronounce Baker?

It is said BAY-ker /ˈbeɪkər/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Baker a boy or girl name?

Baker is used predominantly as a boys' name.

How popular is Baker?

Baker is a rising occupational surname name in the U.S., entering the top 500 for boys in the mid-2020s.