Palmer

boyEnglish

Palmer is an boy name of English, from Old French origin, meaning “Pilgrim carrying a palm”.

MeaningPilgrim carrying a palm
GenderBoy
OriginEnglish, from Old French
PronunciationPAH-mer
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom

Meaning and origin of Palmer

Palmer began as an English surname for a pilgrim who had been to the Holy Land and brought back a palm frond or palm-leaf badge as proof. It comes from Anglo-Norman paumer, from Latin palma, 'palm'. The surname became a first name in the English-speaking world, and in recent years it has been used for girls as well as boys in the United States. The golfer Arnold Palmer helped keep the name familiar.

Is Palmer a religious name?

Palmer has a medieval Christian background, since it described pilgrims to Jerusalem, but today it is used as a secular surname-style name.

How popular is Palmer?

An uncommon but rising surname-style name in the United States.

Gifts with the name Palmer

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Names similar to Palmer

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Palmer mean?

Palmer means 'Pilgrim carrying a palm'. It is of English, from Old French origin.

Does Palmer have a religious meaning?

Palmer has a medieval Christian background, since it described pilgrims to Jerusalem, but today it is used as a secular surname-style name.

How do you pronounce Palmer?

Palmer is pronounced PAH-mer.

Is Palmer a boy or girl name?

Palmer is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.