Occupational Names

Lively, friendly surname that might appeal to basketball fans.

One professional surname that won't pass the Bar.

Miner is a masculine occupational name derived from the English language, referring to someone who works in mines extracting coal, ore, or other minerals. As a first name, Miner is uncommon and carries strong working-class connotations, evoking images of hard work, determination, and industrial heritage. The name gained limited use in America during the 19th century when occupational names were occasionally adopted as given names. While rare in contemporary usage, Miner might appeal to families with mining heritage or those seeking a unique, rugged name with clear meaning and historical significance.

Might be an honorific for novelist Saul Bellow, although bellowing is not the gentlest of sounds. Consider Saul instead.

The kind of occupational name with an inspirational feel that's new now.

Pell makes an unusual middle name choice. And if grandpa Seymour was a fur trader, you might do better to honor him by naming the baby Pell.

Might make a good middle name for the child of a musician, though people could think you were honoring your BMW.

Burrell is a masculine surname that has transitioned to use as a first name. It has Old French and Germanic origins, derived from "borel" meaning "reddish-brown" or possibly referring to coarse cloth. As a surname, it was often occupational, associated with cloth-makers or those with reddish complexions. As a given name, Burrell remains uncommon, giving it distinction and character. The name carries a certain dignity and traditional quality, often appealing to parents seeking uncommon names with historical roots. Burrell has maintained a steady but low profile in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States and United Kingdom.

Mailer is one of the more unusual of the on-trend occupational surnames. Recommended for fans of the macho writer Norman Mailer.