Hunter is a distinctive girls' name in United States, ranking #561 in 2002 with 472 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1998 with 997 births ranking #305. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 39.6%. In 2002, approximately 1 in every 3,807 girls born was named Hunter. STABLE Recent data shows the name is currently stable.
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.