The name Piper is derived from the Old English word "pipere," which means "pipe player" or "one who plays the pipe." It originates from the time when pipers, or musicians who played the pipe instrument, were a common sight in medieval England and other parts of Europe. The name gained popularity as a surname among pipers and their families.

In the 12th century, the name appeared in historical records, such as the Pipe Rolls of Henry II, where it was used to refer to individuals who played the pipe. Over time, the name transitioned from being a descriptive term to a given name.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Piper as a first name dates back to the 14th century, when a woman named Piper de Denby was mentioned in the Yorkshire Assize Rolls of 1349. In the 15th century, a man named Piper Huddleston was recorded in the Paston Letters, a collection of correspondence from a wealthy English family.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Piper. One of the most famous was Piper Alpha (1535-1588), an English explorer and sailor who accompanied Sir Francis Drake on his circumnavigation of the globe. Another was Piper Laurie (born Rosetta Jacobs, 1922-), an American actress known for her roles in films such as "The Hustler" and "Carrie."

In the realm of literature, Piper Maru was the name of a character in the novel "The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck, published in 1931. The book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and helped to popularize the name.

Other historical figures with the name Piper include Piper Wyndham (1893-1957), a British actor and playwright, and Piper Halliwell (fictional character), the protagonist of the television series "Charmed," which aired from 1998 to 2006.

The name Piper has a rich history and has been used across various cultures and time periods, often associated with the musical instrument and the profession of pipe playing. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its unique sound and connection to a centuries-old tradition.