Harper: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced HAR-per · 2 syllables
Harper means “harp player”, from English.
Inherited from Middle English Harpere.
- Meaning
- harp player
- Origin
- English
- Pronunciation
- HAR-per
- US rank (2025)
- #16
- US babies a year
- about 7,849 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2010
- Style
- Literary
How popular is Harper?
Harper was the #16 name in the US in 2025, given to 6,869 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 2010.
Most popular in Nebraska (#3), West Virginia (#4), Maine (#5), Louisiana (#6), Montana (#6), Alabama (#7), Arkansas (#7), South Dakota (#7).
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #16 |
| England & Wales | #28 |
| Scotland | #21 |
| Northern Ireland | #56 |
| Ireland | #54 |
| France | #811 |
| Canada | #46 |
| Australia | #7 |
How old are people named Harper?
Half of US adults named Harper are older than 20; most are between 18 and 50. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Harper
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Harper
What does the name Harper mean?
Harper means “harp player”. It comes from English.
How do you pronounce Harper?
Harper is pronounced HAR-per.
How popular is the name Harper?
Harper was the #16 name in the US in 2025, given to 6,869 babies. Its use has been fairly steady over the last decade. It peaked around 2010.
How old are people named Harper?
Half of US adults named Harper are older than 20. Most are between 18 and 50.