Porter

boyEnglish

Porter is an boy name of English, from Old French origin, meaning “Gatekeeper”.

MeaningGatekeeper
GenderBoy
OriginEnglish, from Old French
PronunciationPOR-ter
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Canada

Meaning and origin of Porter

Porter is an English occupational surname with two sources: the porter, or gatekeeper, from Old French portier, from Latin porta, 'gate'; and the porter who carried loads, from Old French porteour. The gatekeeper sense is the usual explanation for the first name. It became a first name in the United States in the nineteenth century and has been rising again recently. The songwriter Cole Porter is a famous bearer of the surname.

Is Porter a religious name?

Porter has no religious background; it is a secular occupational name.

How popular is Porter?

Increasingly popular in the United States.

Gifts with the name Porter

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Names similar to Porter

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Porter mean?

Porter means 'Gatekeeper'. It is of English, from Old French origin.

Does Porter have a religious meaning?

Porter has no religious background; it is a secular occupational name.

How do you pronounce Porter?

Porter is pronounced POR-ter.

Is Porter a boy or girl name?

Porter is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.