Harper

Harper is a gender-neutral first name from English, originating from a Scottish surname. This name refers to a job title and is directly translated as "the harp player" as well as "the harp."

What does the name Harper mean?

Harper is a gender-neutral first name used for both boys and girls and is derived from a Scottish surname. Its meanings include "the harp player," "the harpist," as well as "the harp." The name comes from the Old English word hearpe, which means "harp" and "lyre." Harpists were often also active as minstrels.

Where does the name Harper come from?

The name Harper has its roots in Old English and is commonly used as both a female and male first name. Its meaning is "the harp player." The Old English term hearpe stands for "harp" and "lyre" and is found in both English and Scottish languages.

How do you pronounce Harper?

The pronunciation of Harper is sonorous and concise. The name consists of two syllables and begins with an open A sound, pronounced as "Har-per" [ˈhaʁpɐ] or in English [ˈhɑːrpər]. The consonant combination "-rp-" gives the name a powerful center. The reduced ending sounds provide a clear conclusion. Harper thus conveys a modern and confident impression – clear, structured, and present.

Popularity

In Germany, the name Harper enjoys great popularity. Currently, it ranks 2,358th among the most common female first names. Its best placement was in 2018, reaching 1,790th place. In the last ten years, Harper has been given as a first name about 120 times, which places it 2,174th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 2,583rd.

Nicknames & pet names

Harp / Harpi / Harpie

Famous people

• Harper Avery (character from Grey's Anatomy)
• Harper Carter (American actress)
• Harper Davis (American soccer player)
• Harper Finkle (character in 'Wizards of Waverly Place')
• Harper Goff (American musician)
• Harper Grace Burtka-Harris (daughter of Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka)
• Harper Hamshaw (rugby player from England)
• Harper Kamp (basketball player from the USA)
• Harper Lebel (soccer player from the USA)
• Harper Lee (author (To Kill a Mockingbird))
• Harper Marshall (actress from England)
• Harper McIntyre (character in 'The 100')
• Harper Phillips (American alpine ski racer)
• Harper Seven Beckham (daughter of David and Victoria Beckham)
• Harper Simon (singer from the USA)
• Harper Williams (American basketball player)
• Harpers Island (TV series)
• Mary Harper Sowell (poet from America)
• Morgan Harper Nichols (American musician)
• Nelle Harper Lee (American writer)