Hunter is a highly popular boys' name in United States, ranking #40 in 2014 with 8,838 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2000 with 12,538 births ranking #35. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 16.2%. In 2014, approximately 1 in every 217 boys born was named Hunter. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Hunter is a direct occupational surname name meaning exactly what it says. Its popularity comes from its rugged, outdoorsy image and very clear, masculine sound.
The name moved from surname to given name in the modern period and became especially popular in North America. It fits naturally with other action-based and job-based boys' names.