Harper

/HAR-pur/

English

Harper is an English baby name pronounced /HAR-pur/. This name literally refers to a person who plays the harp.

Meaning of Harper

This name literally refers to a person who plays the harp.

Derived from the Old English 'hearpere', the name originally functioned as an occupational surname for musicians who played the harp or for those who manufactured the instrument. It emerged as a given name in the 19th century but remained relatively rare for many decades. The name's rise in popularity is often attributed to its use as both a classic surname and a modern, spirited first name.

Origin
English
Pronunciation
/HAR-pur/

Cultural background

While traditionally used as a boy's name, Harper transitioned into a popular unisex and predominantly feminine name in the 21st century, particularly in the United States and Canada.

Variations & nicknames

  • Harp
  • Harpar
  • Harperlee
  • Harpy

Famous people named Harper

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Harper Lee

    Author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird'

    Literature · 20th Century

  • Harper Williams

    Professional basketball player in the ACB and various European leagues

    Sport · 1990s-2000s

  • Harper Simon

    Singer-songwriter and son of musician Paul Simon

    Music · 21st Century

  • Harper Finkle

    Character from the television series 'Wizards of Waverly Place'

    Film · 2000s

Frequently asked about Harper

Is Harper a boy's name or a girl's name?
Harper is a unisex name used for both boys and girls, though it has seen a significant surge in popularity for girls in recent years.
What is the historical origin of the name Harper?
It is an English occupational surname dating back to the Middle Ages, referring to a harpist.
Why did Harper become a popular first name?
Its rise is often linked to the legacy of author Harper Lee and a general trend toward using surnames as first names.

Love Harper? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh English names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Harper with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More English names

See all English names
Find more names like Harper