Fisher

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Fisher

Gender Boy
Origin American
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation FISH-ər

Fisher, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of American origin.

Meaning of Fisher

Fisherman

Fisher is an English surname derived from the Middle English word "fisshere," which means "fisherman." It is also a given name, typically given to boys, that means "one who fishes."

Save
Rate:
(3/5 from 5 votes)
Meaning Fisherman
Origin American
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #897 in 2024 Declining
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Modern (peaked 2017)

Background & History of The Name Fisher

Fisher is a surname of English origin that is derived from an occupational name. The name itself signifies that its original bearers were involved in the fishing industry. As a result, it is one of the common surnames found among those who lived near bodies of water or coastal areas where fishing was a prominent profession. The surname Fisher first emerged in the 12th century, primarily in the regions of northern England and Scotland. It is derived from the Old English word "fiscere," which means "fisherman."

The Fisher surname has evolved over time, and there are various alternative spellings and variations associated with it, such as Fish, Fishman, and Fisk. The popularity of the surname increased during the Middle Ages as the fishing industry grew, and it spread geographically to other parts of England.

Throughout history, many notable individuals have carried the surname Fisher. John Fisher, for example, was an influential English bishop and theologian during the Reformation period in the 16th century. His strong opposition to Henry VIII's actions led to his execution, making him one of the most prominent Catholic martyrs of the time. Another notable figure is Irving Fisher, an American economist in the early 20th century known for his extensive research in the field of macroeconomics and his development of various economic theories.

Today, the name Fisher remains relatively common, and individuals with this surname can be found across the globe. Many families continue to embrace their fishing heritage, passing down the meaningful name from generation to generation. The surname Fisher serves as a reminder of the historical connection people had with the fishing industry and highlights the importance of occupations in shaping surnames and family histories.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Fisher over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Fisher would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Fisher.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names