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Hunter

Boy / Girl name · 1,372 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Hunter: 1,372 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to both boys and girls, peaking at 169 births in 2019.

Hunter is an English occupational surname turned first name, rooted in the Old English word *hunta*, meaning "one who hunts," originally given to those who pursued game for a living. Its rise as a given name tracks closely with modern Scottish usage, where it has charted steadily since the 1980s. Famous bearers include American author Hunter S. Thompson, founder of gonzo journalism, and the actor Hunter Doohan, known for *Wednesday*. Though no major places are named after a specific Hunter, the name shares its etymological root with places like Huntly in Aberdeenshire. A notable correlation: Hunter has become a strongly popular choice for girls in Scotland too, reflecting its contemporary unisex appeal and outdoorsy, energetic vibe.