Traditionally, occupation names were chosen for practicality – by calling yourself by what you do, it automatically tells people about your job. These days, occupational names aren’t quite so functional but they have become very popular as general baby name choices. Another great thing about these names is that a lot of them are unisex and would make great choices for all newborns!
Archer is a common surname in England, though it can be used as a given name. It is derived from the Middle English word ‘archere’ and was given as an occupational name for skilled bowmen in the 14th century.
Chace is an Old English surname given as an occupational name for huntsman. As a given name it was uncommon but in recent years it has become popular in America.
Clark is a name originally given to someone with the occupation of a clerk, which in the Middle Ages was a holy man with the ability to read and write.
Before being adapted to a given name, Cooper was originally an occupational surname for one who made and sold barrels and tubs. It is still a common surname but is slowly becoming popular as a first name too.
Harper was originally a surname used by those who had a history of playing the harp. It is now used as a unisex given name and was made famous in 2011 when David and Victoria Beckham named their first daughter Harper Seven Beckham.
This name has been around since the Middle Ages. It used to be given as a surname to those who worked with stone but has now transferred into a unisex given name.
Piper was originally a surname given to those whose father played the pipe. It is now a unisex first name.
Ryder is a name of Old English origin. The name was given as an occupational name for horseback riders in medieval times. It is more common as a surname but has recently become popular as a given name.
Traditionally an occupational surname for someone who worked aboard a boat. Slowly it is becoming popular as a given name for boys.
Taylor was originally a surname given to those with the occupation of tailor. It is a popular unisex name.
