Find out how popular the first name Trapper has been for the last 50 years (from 1975 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Trapper by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Trapper is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 21 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Trapper.

The history of the first name Trapper

The name Trapper is an English occupational name derived from the Middle English word "trapper," meaning a person who sets traps to catch animals for their fur or meat. The name's origins can be traced back to the 14th century when the fur trade was a thriving industry in Europe and North America.

The name Trapper was most commonly used in regions where hunting and trapping were prevalent occupations, such as the American frontier and the Canadian wilderness. It was often given to individuals who made a living by trapping animals for their pelts, which were highly sought after in the fashion industry and for warmth during harsh winters.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Trapper can be found in the journals of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, where they encountered a group of Native American trappers in the early 19th century. These trappers played a crucial role in the exploration and settlement of the American West.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the first name Trapper. One of the most famous was Trapper Nelson (1810-1857), a renowned American mountain man and fur trapper who spent much of his life in the Rocky Mountains. His exploits and adventures were chronicled in numerous books and legends.

Another notable Trapper was Trapper Jack Monroe (1865-1939), a Canadian fur trapper and prospector who spent years exploring the wilderness of northern British Columbia and the Yukon Territory. He became a legendary figure in Canadian folklore and was known for his survival skills and resourcefulness in the harsh environment.

In the realm of literature, Trapper John Dunn (1908-1996) was an American author and novelist who wrote several books based on his experiences as a fur trapper in the Alaskan wilderness. His most famous work, "The Trapper," published in 1935, became a classic in outdoor literature.

Trapper Jim (1860-1942), whose real name was James Dexter, was a prominent figure in the American Old West. He was a skilled trapper, hunter, and guide who worked extensively in the Yellowstone region and played a significant role in the early conservation efforts of the area.

Finally, Trapper John Felter (1925-2009) was an American actor and writer best known for his role as Trapper John McIntyre in the television series "MAS*H" and its spin-off series "Trapper John, M.D." His portrayal of a skilled and compassionate surgeon in the Korean War became an iconic character in American television history.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Trapper was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Trapper, please contact us.

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