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Hunter
Pronounced HUN-ter /ˈhʌn.tər/High
Meaning: From the Old English huntian (to hunt) via the Middle English surname Hunter, meaning 'one who hunts'; used as a occupational surname and now as a given name for both boys and girlsHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Hunter derives from the Old English verb huntian (to hunt), producing the occupational surname denoting a professional hunter or huntsman. Hunting was a high-status occupation in medieval England — royal forests were hunting preserves — giving the surname an aristocratic flavor despite its occupational origin. The name transferred to given-name use in the United States during the 19th century.
Hunter was used almost exclusively for boys in the U.S. through most of the 20th century, ranking in the top 50 boys names in the late 1990s. In the 21st century it has increasingly been used for girls, following the well-established pattern of strong occupational and outdoor names crossing to the girls column. Its straightforward, two-syllable rhythm fits comfortably with other female surname names.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Hunter S. Thompson (1937–2005)American journalist and author who pioneered gonzo journalism, best known for Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.
If you like Hunter…
Frequently Asked
What does the name Hunter mean?
Hunter means one who hunts, from the Old English occupational surname for a professional hunter.
How do you pronounce Hunter?
It is said HUN-ter, with two syllables.
Is Hunter a girls name?
Hunter was traditionally used for boys but is increasingly used for girls in the 21st century.
Is Hunter a popular name?
Hunter has been popular in the U.S. for boys since the 1990s and is growing for girls.