Harper

Harper is an English occupational surname turned given name, derived from the Old English word hearpere, meaning a player of the harp. The harp was a prestigious instrument in medieval Europe, and those who played it professionally were valued members of noble courts, giving the surname considerable distinction. The name gained popularity as a given name in the twentieth century, boosted in part by the fame of American author Harper Lee. Variants and related forms include Harpe and the Scottish Gaelic equivalent Clàrsair.