Home › Baby Names Directory › Cooper

Cooper

♂ Boy

Pronounced KOO-per /ˈkuːpər/High

Meaning: Barrel maker; one who makes or repairs casks and barrelsHigh

In 30 seconds: A friendly Old English occupational surname meaning 'barrel maker.' Cooper has surged into the U.S. top 80 boys' names, beloved for its warm, approachable energy.
💕 Browse more names
Origin HighOld English
MeaningBarrel maker; one who makes or repairs casks and barrels
Peak year2015
Total births (all-time)≈ 81,043

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201518822017

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

History & Origin

Cooper is an Old English occupational surname from the Middle English and Anglo-French couper, referring to someone who made or repaired barrels, casks, and other wooden containers. The trade was vital for storing and shipping beer, wine, and grain. Like Carter and Mason, Cooper converted from surname to first name as the American trend for occupational surnames accelerated.

Cooper began appearing as a boys' first name in significant numbers in the 1980s and 1990s and has climbed steadily ever since. Its warm, two-syllable bounce and built-in nickname (Coop) make it immediately likeable. It sits comfortably in the mainstream without feeling overused, balancing classic heritage with modern freshness.

Did you know? Coopering — the craft of making barrels — was one of the most economically vital trades in pre-industrial society, as barrels transported virtually every liquid and dry good.

Variations

—

Nicknames

Coop

Famous Bearers

  • ★Bradley Cooper (1975–)
    American actor and filmmaker, known for Silver Linings Playbook and A Star Is Born.

If you like Cooper…

Carter— fellow Old English occupational surname-name in the same top-100 tier
Tucker— another warm, casual occupational surname popular for boys
Mason— the most popular occupational surname-name, a natural comparison
Parker— sleek occupational surname-name with the same friendly, modern feel

Frequently Asked

What does the name Cooper mean?

Cooper is an Old English occupational surname meaning 'barrel maker' — someone who made or repaired casks.

How do you pronounce Cooper?

It's said KOO-per /ˈkuːpər/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Cooper a boy or girl name?

Cooper is used predominantly as a boys' name.

How popular is Cooper?

Cooper ranks in the U.S. top 100 boys' names and has climbed steadily since the 1990s.