Archer
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Archer
Archer, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Archer
Bowman
Archer is an English surname derived from the Middle English arche, meaning "bowman" or "archer," and is also used as a given name. It can also refer to someone who is skilled with a bow and arrow, or someone who is adept at hitting a target.
| Meaning | Bowman |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #115 in 2024 Rising |
| Rarity (US) | Moderate (Top 250) |
| Era | Modern (peaked 2024) |
Background & History of The Name Archer
The name Archer is of English origin and is primarily a surname, which later became a popular given name. It derives from the occupational name "archer", which referred to a skilled marksman who used a bow and arrow. The word "archer" itself originates from the Old French word "archier", meaning "bowman". Throughout history, archers played a vital role in warfare, both on foot and horseback, making this name particularly associated with strength, precision, and agility.
The surname Archer can be traced back to medieval England, where it first appeared as a hereditary family name. Initially, surnames were developed to distinguish between individuals with similar given names and became hereditary as they were passed down from one generation to the next. The name Archer has gained popularity as a first name in recent times, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its rise as a given name might be attributed to the trend of adopting surnames as first names or the desire for traditional yet distinctive names.
Archer is often associated with positive traits such as determination, focus, and adaptability, qualities commonly associated with skilled archers. The television show "Archer" and the fictional character Sterling Archer have also contributed to the name's increased visibility in popular culture. The name Archer has a strong, masculine sound and works well with various last names, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their sons.
In summary, the name Archer has an English origin and originally referred to a skilled marksman using a bow and arrow. It started as a surname and gradually became a popular given name. The name is associated with strength, precision, and agility. Its recent rise in popularity might be attributed to the use of surnames as first names and the character Sterling Archer from the TV show "Archer".
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Archer over the years.
Check Initials
See what initials Archer would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Archer.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account