All about the name
Parmer
Male
« Parmer is an uncommon English given name derived from Old English words "par" or "pear" (fruit) and "-mer" ("famous"), translating to "famous for pears". Though never historically used until author Stephen Vincent Benét created it in 1937, Parmer has since been adopted as a genuine name, often associated with the Southern United States. »
#35844
since 1900
Meaning, origin, history
Parmer is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. Its meaning and history are not as widely known as some other names, which makes it all the more intriguing.
The name Parmer can be traced back to Old English, where it was derived from the word "par" or "pear", which refers to the fruit itself. The suffix "-mer" is also of Old English origin and means "famous". Therefore, the name Parmer could literally translate to "famous for pears".
However, there is no evidence to suggest that this name was ever used historically as a given name in England or any other country. It is believed that Parmer was created as a fictional name by American author Stephen Vincent Benét in his 1937 short story collection, "The Devil and Daniel Webster". In the title story of the collection, one of the characters is named Parmer.
Despite its literary origins, Parmer has since been adopted as a genuine given name in some English-speaking countries. It is still quite rare, which adds to its uniqueness and mystique. Today, it is often associated with the Southern United States, where it may have gained popularity through Benét's work.
In conclusion, while Parmer may not have a long history or widespread use as a given name, its literary origins and unique meaning make it an interesting choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child. As with any name, its significance will ultimately depend on the personal associations and preferences of those who bear it.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Parmer since 1880
Total births
7
Total since 1880
Peak year
1918
7 births
in 1918
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years