The given name Walker originated as an English occupational surname derived from the Old English word "wealcere," meaning "fuller" or someone who beats and thickens cloth. It eventually transitioned into a first name used for children.

The earliest recorded use of Walker as a first name dates back to the late 16th century, though it was still relatively rare at that time. One of the earliest known bearers was Walker Feylde, born around 1560 in Gloucestershire, England.

Over time, the name Walker gained popularity, particularly among Puritan and Quaker communities who favored virtue names and occupational surnames as first names. Notable historical figures with the first name Walker include Walker Brooke (1813-1869), an American politician and lawyer from Virginia, and Walker Percy (1916-1990), an American novelist and essayist known for his works exploring existential themes.

In the 19th century, the name Walker became more widely used, often chosen for its association with strength, resilience, and industriousness. One prominent bearer was Walker Evans (1903-1975), the renowned American photographer and photojournalist best known for his work documenting the Great Depression.

Another notable figure was Walker Hancock (1901-1998), an American businessman and philanthropist who played a key role in the development of modern-day Silicon Valley. He co-founded the semi-conductor company Rheem Manufacturing and later established the Walker Hancock Engineering Building at Stanford University.

During the 20th century, the name Walker continued to be used, though it experienced a decline in popularity in some regions. One notable bearer from this period was Walker Percy (1916-1990), the American novelist and essayist previously mentioned, whose works explored themes of existentialism, faith, and the human condition.