Find out how popular the first name Waker has been for the last 10 years (from 2010 to 2019) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Waker by gender

Based on the last 10 years of data, Waker is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2019, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Waker.

The history of the first name Waker

The name Waker is an Old English word derived from the verb "wacian," which means "to be awake" or "to remain vigilant." It originated in Anglo-Saxon England during the medieval period, around the 5th to 11th centuries AD. The name was likely given to individuals who were known for their alertness, attentiveness, or ability to stay awake during long periods of time.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Waker can be found in the Domesday Book, a great survey of land ownership commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The entry mentions a landowner named "Wacor" in the county of Somerset, which is believed to be an early spelling variation of the name Waker.

In the 12th century, a monk named Waker of Malvern was known for his dedication to prayer and his ability to stay awake through the night. He is mentioned in several monastic records from the time, and his name likely reflects his commitment to spiritual vigilance.

During the 13th century, a renowned scholar and philosopher named Waker of Oxford was active at the University of Oxford. He is recognized for his contributions to the study of logic and metaphysics, and his name may have been a reference to his intellectual alertness and keen mind.

In the 15th century, a notable figure named Waker Smythe was a wealthy merchant and landowner in the city of Bristol. He is recorded in various historical documents and is remembered for his successful business ventures and his role in local politics.

In more recent times, a famous individual with the name Waker was Waker Lewis, an American writer and journalist born in 1895. He is best known for his investigative reporting and his coverage of social issues, particularly during the Great Depression. Lewis was celebrated for his ability to shed light on important topics and keep the public informed.

It's important to note that while the name Waker has a rich historical background, it is relatively uncommon in modern times. However, its connection to vigilance, awareness, and attentiveness has endured throughout the centuries, making it a unique and meaningful name with deep roots in the English language.

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 Waker was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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