The given name Taylor is an English occupational surname that originated in the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old French word "tailleur," which means "tailor" or someone who makes or alters clothing. The name likely came into use as a way to identify individuals by their trade or occupation.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Taylor can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, which was a survey conducted in England and Wales by order of William the Conqueror. The name appears as a surname in various spellings such as "Taylour" and "Taillour."

During the Middle Ages, the name Taylor was not commonly used as a given name, but rather as a surname for those who worked as tailors or in the clothing industry. It wasn't until the 16th and 17th centuries that the name began to be used as a first name, particularly in England and Scotland.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the given name Taylor was Taylor White (1593-1676), an English clergyman and author who served as the rector of Christ Church in Newgate, London.

Another notable individual with the name was Taylor Combe (1590-1665), an English clergyman and author who served as the rector of Stretton in Rutland.

In the 18th century, Taylor Weymouth (1714-1762) was a British naval officer who served as the commander of the HMS Dolphin during the Seven Years' War.

In the 19th century, Taylor Caldwell (1900-1985) was an American novelist known for her bestselling works such as "Captains and the Kings" and "Testimony of Two Men."

Another famous individual with the name was Taylor Swift (born in 1989), an American singer-songwriter who has become one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation.

The name Taylor gained popularity as a given name in the 20th century, particularly in the United States, where it became a unisex name used for both boys and girls. It has consistently ranked among the top 100 baby names in the United States for several decades.