Origin & Meaning of the Baker Surname
What does the last name Baker mean?
The surname Baker carries the meaning "Occupational name for a baker of bread." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 419,586 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Baker ranks as the #44 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Baker come from?
The Baker surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Baker name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Baker trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Baker |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Occupational name for a baker of bread |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #44 |
| US Count (2010) | 419,586 |
| Per 100K People | 142.24 |
| First Letter | B |
Ethnic Distribution of Baker
According to the US Census, the Baker surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 419,586 Americans with the Baker last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 79.83% |
| Black | 14.44% |
| Hispanic | 2.28% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.56% |
| Native American | 0.87% |
| Two or More Races | 2.02% |
Popularity of Baker Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Baker surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Baker surname increased by 6,235 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Baker
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