Wheeler
Wheeler is a boy's name of English origin.
Meaning
Wheel maker or wheelwright.
Origin and history
Wheeler originated as an English occupational surname for a wheel maker or driver of a wheeled vehicle. Historically used in the United States, it retains a distinct occupational and surname-as-first-name feel. It has seen a mild resurgence in modern U.S. rankings as parents look for classic occupational names.
Popularity in the United States
1,916 babies in the United States have been named Wheeler since 1880. It ranks #2934 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1727.
States where it is most popular
- AL (42.7 %)
- NC (22.2 %)
- TX (13.7 %)
- KY (8.5 %)
- MS (4.3 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 73 |
| 1890-1900 | 59 |
| 1900-1910 | 75 |
| 1910-1920 | 219 |
| 1920-1930 | 287 |
| 1930-1940 | 171 |
| 1940-1950 | 168 |
| 1950-1960 | 133 |
| 1960-1970 | 57 |
| 1970-1980 | 47 |
| 1980-1990 | 30 |
| 1990-2000 | 73 |
| 2000-2010 | 104 |
| 2010-2019 | 220 |
| 2020-2029 | 200 |
Famous people named Wheeler
- Wheeler Dryden: actor, film director
Fun facts
- Derived from the Old English 'hweol', originally referring to an artisan who crafted wheels.
- Part of the broader American trend of turning classic English trade surnames into given names.