The name Hunter has its origins in the Old English word "huntere", which derived from the Proto-Germanic word "huntojan". This word was used to refer to someone who engaged in the activity of hunting, typically for food or sport. The name's roots can be traced back to around the 5th century AD in areas populated by Anglo-Saxon tribes in what is now known as England.

The name Hunter gained popularity during the Middle Ages, as hunting was a common pursuit among the nobility and the landed gentry. It was often used as an occupational surname for those whose primary role was to hunt game for their lords or employers. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists a person named "Huntor" living in Lincolnshire, England.

Throughout history, the name Hunter has been associated with individuals who excelled in hunting or were passionate about the sport. One notable figure was Robert Hunter (c. 1285-1330), a Scottish huntsman who served under King Robert the Bruce and was known for his skills in tracking and hunting deer. In the 16th century, John Hunter (c. 1550-1615), an English hunter and forester, gained fame for his expertise in hunting and wildlife conservation.

The name Hunter also has religious significance, particularly in the Christian tradition. In the Bible, the Book of Genesis mentions Nimrod, who was described as "a mighty hunter before the Lord" (Genesis 10:9). This passage has often been interpreted as a reference to his skill in hunting or, more broadly, as a symbol of strength and prowess.

During the Renaissance period, the name Hunter was associated with the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual curiosity. One notable figure was William Hunter (1718-1783), a Scottish anatomist and physician who made significant contributions to the fields of obstetrics and anatomy. Another prominent individual was John Hunter (1728-1793), a Scottish surgeon and naturalist who is considered one of the founders of modern scientific surgery.

In the 19th century, the name Hunter gained popularity in the United States. One notable bearer was David Hunter (1802-1886), a Union general during the American Civil War, who played a crucial role in several campaigns against the Confederate forces. Another famous Hunter from this era was Robert Mercer Taliaferro Hunter (1809-1887), a prominent American politician who served as a U.S. Senator and Confederate Secretary of State during the Civil War.