Porter

Meaning of Porter

Porter was an occupational surname for a gatekeeper or doorkeeper.

Porter has English roots — browse every English baby name in our catalog.

Popularity of Porter

Porter is climbing again, up to #560 in 2025 from #615 in 2024 after peaking at #368 in 2014.

Notable people named Porter

• Cole Porter
  American composer and songwriter
• Edwin H. Porter
  Pioneering film director
• Terry Porter
  Former NBA basketball player
• Michael Porter Jr.
  NBA basketball player
• Rodney Porter
  Nobel Prize winner (physiology)

More English names

Questions about the name Porter

What does the name Porter mean?

Porter means porter was an occupational surname for a gatekeeper or doorkeeper, and it comes from English origins.

Is Porter a boy's or a girl's name?

Porter is most commonly used as a boy's name in the United States.

How popular is the name Porter?

In 2025, Porter ranked #560 for boys, up from #615 the year before.

When was Porter most popular?

Porter peaked at #368 in 2014.