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Baylor

♂ Boy

Pronounced BAY-lor /ˈbeɪ.lər/High

Meaning: English occupational surname from Old French bailleur meaning one who delivers or a bailor; used as a given name primarily through association with Baylor UniversityMedium

In 30 seconds: Baylor is a rising Texas-inspired surname name with occupational Old French roots, gaining ground as Southern preppy names enjoy renewed popularity.
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Origin MediumEnglish, Old French
MeaningEnglish occupational surname from Old French bailleur meaning one who delivers or a bailor; used as a given name primarily through association with Baylor University
U.S. rank (2025)#386 ↘ Falling
2025 U.S. births822 boys (0.04% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2024
Total births (all-time)≈ 9,005

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 202419182025

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

History & Origin

Baylor is an English occupational surname derived from Old French bailleur, meaning one who delivers goods or a legal bailor. It became a surname and was given prominence through Judge R.E.B. Baylor, founder of Baylor University.

As a first name, Baylor has surged in the U.S. since the 2010s, riding the wave of Southern surname-names. It appeals to parents who want something familiar-sounding but not overused.

Did you know? Baylor University in Waco, Texas — founded in 1845 — is the world's largest Baptist university and has given this name strong regional associations across the American South.
Overall data confidence 80%
U.S. Social Security Administration — popularity dataBehind the Name — Baylor — surname origin notes

Variations

BailorBayler

Nicknames

Bay

Famous Bearers

  • ★Elgin Baylor (1934–2021)
    NBA Hall of Fame basketball player, considered one of the greatest forwards in league history.

If you like Baylor…

Taylor— shares the occupational surname origin and similar -lor ending
Tucker— fellow occupational English surname-name with Southern preppy charm
Porter— another Old French occupational surname now used as a given name
Lawson— shares the Southern preppy surname-name style and two-syllable rhythm

Frequently Asked

What does the name Baylor mean?

Baylor is an occupational surname from Old French bailleur meaning one who delivers goods or a bailor.

How do you pronounce Baylor?

It is said BAY-lor /ˈbeɪ.lər/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Baylor a Southern name?

Baylor has strong Southern associations in the U.S., partly through Baylor University in Texas.

Is Baylor a new name?

As a given name, Baylor is a modern choice that has risen sharply since the 2010s.