Baxter

boyOld English

Baxter is an boy name of Old English origin, meaning “Baker”.

MeaningBaker
GenderBoy
OriginOld English
PronunciationBAK-ster
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited Kingdom, Australia, United States

Meaning and origin of Baxter

Baxter comes from the Old English baecestre, 'baker'. The -estre ending originally marked a woman's occupation, so it first meant a female baker, though by the Middle Ages it was used for men too. It became a common surname in Scotland and northern England. The seventeenth-century Puritan writer Richard Baxter is a notable bearer, and the name now has a friendly, vintage feel as a first name.

Is Baxter a religious name?

Baxter has no religious background; it is an English occupational surname adopted as a first name.

How popular is Baxter?

An occasional, slightly quirky boy's name in Britain and Australia; uncommon in the United States.

Gifts with the name Baxter

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Spellings and variants of Baxter

Baxtor

Names similar to Baxter

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Baxter mean?

Baxter means 'Baker'. It is of Old English origin.

Does Baxter have a religious meaning?

Baxter has no religious background; it is an English occupational surname adopted as a first name.

How do you pronounce Baxter?

Baxter is pronounced BAK-ster.

Is Baxter a boy or girl name?

Baxter is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.