Kasper is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Dutch name Kaspar, which is itself derived from the Aramaic word "Gashpare," meaning "treasurer" or "keeper of the treasure." The name Kasper is most commonly associated with Saint Caspar, one of the Three Wise Men who visited baby Jesus and brought him gifts. However, there is no historical evidence to suggest that any of the Magi were named Caspar, Melchior, or Balthazar; these names were likely assigned to them in later traditions.
In Denmark and Norway, Kasper is often used as a given name for boys, while in Germany and other German-speaking countries, Kaspar is more common. Despite its origins, the name Kasper has been used across various cultures and languages over time, appearing in forms such as Gaspar, Caspar, Jasper, and Casey.
One notable figure associated with the name Kasper is Dutch artist Kasper Niehaus (1894-1978), known for his expressionist landscapes and portraits. Additionally, Kasper Schmeichel, son of Peter Schmeichel, is a Danish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Leicester City in the Premier League.
In literature, the name Kasper appears in works like "Kasper Hauser: A Film for Children" by Peter Handke, as well as in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, where it belongs to one of the characters listed on the Marauder's Map – Kasper Gutopolis.
Overall, the name Kasper carries a rich history and diverse cultural associations, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Kasper seems to have been quite popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a notable peak between 1916 and 1919, followed by a decline until the mid-20th century. However, it experienced a significant resurgence in popularity starting around the year 2000, with over 35 births per year consistently since then. As of 2023, there have been a total of 1208 babies named Kasper born.