Cooper

Occupational

Meaning

A craftsman who makes or repairs wooden barrels, casks, and other wooden vessels.

Etymology

From Middle English 'couper,' derived from Old English 'cupere,' which comes from the Latin 'cuppa' meaning 'cup' or 'barrel.' The occupation was essential for storing and transporting goods.

About the Cooper Surname

Cooper is a distinctive occupational surname representing a skilled trade that was vital to medieval and early modern commerce. The surname reflects the importance of barrel-making in brewing, wine production, and food storage.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 580,000 bearers in the United States #127 most common surname
Rare Common

Widespread throughout England and common in North America, Scotland, and other English-speaking countries.

Cooper Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

People with the Cooper Surname