Palmer started out as an English surname, but as with many surnames, it eventually became a given name. Up until the late 1940s, it was quite common for boys, but it fell off the list of the top 1,000 baby names for boys in 1949. In 2018, it made a comeback, but this time, for girls. As a matter of fact, it's currently one of the top 500 names for American girls. Palmer has a strong Christian meaning and pairs well with a variety of classic and current middle names.

Meaning of the name Palmer:

English: Palm bearer or pilgrim

Origin of the name Palmer:

Palmer is an English surname with Latin roots. Its meaning is “palm bearer” or “pilgrim,” which refers to Christian who carry palm tree fronds to the Holy Land, as well as modern Christians who celebrate Palm Sunday.

Symbolism of the name Palmer:

Palmer can offer much in the way of symbolism, especially for Christian parents. They may see the name as a reaffirmation of their relationship with Jesus and their spirituality. Non-Christian parents might choose the name as the palm tree symbolizes victory, peace, and eternal life to many cultures.

Style of the name Palmer:

Traditional, surname as a given name

Gender of the name Palmer:

Palmer is a unisex baby name, though it's more common for girls these days.

Pronunciation of the name Palmer:

PALL-mer

Number of syllables in the name Palmer:

Two

Emotion evoked from the name Palmer:

The baby name Palmer evokes images of someone who is outgoing, sassy, and very opinionated.

Alternative spellings for the name Palmer:

N/A

Nicknames for the name Palmer:

  • Pal
  • Paul 
  • Pallie
  • Paulie
  • Alma

Popularity of the name Palmer:

According to the Social Security Administration, Palmer was a top 1,000 name for baby boys in the United States up until 1949. It was most popular in 1908 when it ranked at number 386. As of 2021, it is back on the list, ranking at number 990. As of 2018, it's also a top 1,000 baby name for girls that is quickly climbing the list. In 2021, it last ranked at number 329.

Related names for the name Palmer:

  • Palma
  • Palmeda
  • Padma
  • Pamela
  • Payne

Great middle names for Palmer and their meanings:

Famous people with the name Palmer:

  • Palmer Cox (author and illustrator)
  • Palmer E. Pierce (brigadier general and first president of the NCAA)
  • Palmer Hall (writer, poet, and librarian)
  • Palmer Hayden (painter)
  • Palmer Pyle (football player)

Palmer in popular culture:

  • Palmer Cortlandt (character from the soap opera “All My Children”)
  • Palmer Dodge (character in the movie “Just Go with It”)