Choosing a name for a baby can be a daunting task for parents, as it carries a lot of weight and significance throughout a person’s life. One name that has gained popularity in recent years is “Tanner.” In this article, we will explore the meaning and history behind the name Tanner, along with its cultural significance and notable people who bear the name.
What Does the Name Tanner Mean?
The name Tanner has English origins and is derived from the occupation of tanning, which involves turning animal hides into leather. As such, the name Tanner means “a worker in leather,” or simply “leatherworker.”
In addition to its occupational meaning, the name Tanner also has symbolic significance. Tanning was once considered a noble trade, as it provided people with essential goods like shoes, clothing, and bags. As such, the name Tanner can represent hard work, resourcefulness, and craftsmanship.
The History of the Name Tanner
The name Tanner can be traced back to medieval England, where it was used as an occupational surname for those who worked in the leather industry. Over time, the name became more popular as a first name, and it continues to be used today.
In the United States, the name Tanner first appeared on the Social Security Administration’s baby name list in 1978, and it has been steadily rising in popularity ever since. Today, Tanner is a common name for boys in the US and other English-speaking countries.
Cultural Significance of the Name Tanner
The name Tanner has cultural significance beyond its occupational roots. In some cultures, it is believed that a person’s name can influence their destiny or personality traits. For example, in numerology, each letter of the alphabet is assigned a number, and these numbers can be added together to determine a person’s “destiny” number. For the name Tanner, the destiny number is 8, which is associated with practicality, organization, and self-discipline.
In addition to numerology, the name Tanner has been used in popular culture as well. In the TV show “Full House,” one of the main characters was named Tanner, and the name has since become associated with wholesome, family-oriented values.
Notable People Named Tanner
Throughout history, there have been many notable people who bear the name Tanner. Here are a few examples:
- Tanner Roark: an American professional baseball player who has played for teams like the Washington Nationals and Toronto Blue Jays
- Tanner Foust: an American racing driver who has competed in various forms of motorsports, including rallycross and drifting
- Tanner Buchanan: an American actor known for his role as Robby Keene in the Netflix series “Cobra Kai”
- Tanner Gudauskas: a professional surfer from the United States who has won numerous competitions around the world
Famous Characters Named Tanner
The name Tanner has also been used in various works of fiction and entertainment. Here are a few famous characters who share the name:
- Tanner Boyle: a character from the movie “The Bad News Bears”
- Tanner Fox: a YouTube personality known for his vlogs and automotive content
- Tanner James: a character from the Disney Channel movie “Teen Beach Movie”
- Tanner Hall: a character from the movie “Out Cold”
Frequently Asked Questions About the Name Tanner
- Is Tanner a unisex name?
Yes, while Tanner is more commonly used for boys, it can also be used for girls. - What middle names go well with Tanner?
Some popular middle names for Tanner include James, Lee, Michael, and Joseph. - What are some alternative spellings of the name Tanner?
Some alternative spellings include Tannor, Taner, and Taneer. - What is the most famous person named Tanner?
This is subjective, but some of the most well-known people named Tanner include Tanner Roark and Tanner Buchanan. - What are some similar names to Tanner?
Some similar names to Tanner include Cooper, Carter, Mason, and Hunter.
Conclusion
The name Tanner has a rich history and cultural significance that extends beyond its occupational roots. Whether you’re considering the name for your baby or simply curious about its meaning, Tanner represents hard work, resourcefulness, and craftsmanship. With its rising popularity and notable bearers, the name Tanner is sure to remain a favorite for years to come.

We’re Emma Carole Paradis and Kimberly Carole, the owners and designers of Impeccable Nest, based in Bedford, New Hampshire. A mother-daughter team with a love of design. Originally from Manhattan Beach, California, now based in Bedford, New Hampshire, we bring a Southern California cool and New England tradition to our design. Not only do we work together…we also live together in a multi-generational home…and a home that they are known to design for others.