"treasurer, keeper of treasure"
Origin: Persian
Language: Persian
Casper
Pronunciation: [ k-ASP-er ]
Boy Name
#881 Most Popular
Rising
2 Syllables
A Persian gem of a name with treasury of charm
Dutch
Scandinavian
German
English
Vintage
Whimsical
Unique
Classic
Meaning & Origin
"bringer of treasure (gift-bearer)"
Origin: Medieval Christian tradition
Language: Latin
Things to Know About This Name
- Casper the Friendly Ghost, a beloved children's character that may invite playful teasing about being a ghost
The Story of Casper
Casper is believed to derive from the ancient Persian name Gundapharus or Gaspar, meaning treasurer or keeper of the treasure. It is traditionally associated with one of the three Biblical Magi or Wise Men who brought gifts to the infant Jesus, though this attribution comes from medieval tradition rather than scripture. The name spread through Europe via this association and became especially common in Dutch and Scandinavian countries.
Casper is experiencing a significant revival in English-speaking countries, driven partly by its charming vintage feel and partly by its popularity in the Netherlands and Scandinavia. It appeals to parents who want a name that sounds both friendly and distinctive. The friendly ghost association has shifted from a liability to an endearing quality for many parents.
In Dutch and Scandinavian cultures, Casper has been a dignified classic for centuries. The Three Wise Men association gives it religious resonance in Christian tradition. In popular culture, Casper the Friendly Ghost (1945) made the name universally recognizable in the English-speaking world.
Fun Facts
- Casper is one of the most popular boys' names in the Netherlands, consistently ranking in the top 20
- The three Magi are traditionally named Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, though no names appear in the Bible itself
Casper in Other Languages
Dutch
Casper
French
Gaspard
German
Kaspar
Spanish
Gaspar
Swedish
Kasper
Famous People Named Casper
C
Casper Smart
Entertainer
1987
American dancer and choreographer known for his work with Jennifer Lopez
C
Casper the Friendly Ghost Fictional
Other
The beloved friendly ghost character created by Seymour Reit and Joe Oriolo in 1945; one of the most recognized ghost ch...
The beloved friendly ghost character created by Seymour Reit and Joe Oriolo in 1945; one of the most recognized ghost characters in popular culture
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Boy
- Syllables
- 2
- Popularity Rank
- #881
- Total SSA Count
- 273
- Cultural Origins
- Dutch Scandinavian German English
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Moderate
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- High
Alternative Spellings
Common Nicknames
Cas
Pairs Well With
Casper James
Casper William
Casper Thomas
Casper Louis
Casper Henry
Casper Felix
Sibling Names
Also a Girl Name
Casper is also used as a girl name, ranked #40936.
View Casper as a girl name →Similar Names
Playground Safety
Kid-Friendly
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Frequently Asked Questions About Casper
What does the name Casper mean?
"treasurer, keeper of treasure" (from Persian). "bringer of treasure (gift-bearer)" (from Medieval Christian tradition). Casper is believed to derive from the ancient Persian name Gundapharus or Gaspar, meaning treasurer or keeper of the treasure. It is traditionally associated with one of the three Biblical Magi or Wise Men who brought gifts to the infant Jesus, though this attribution comes from medieval tradition rather than scripture. The name spread through Europe via this association and became especially common in Dutch and Scandinavian countries.
What is the origin of the name Casper?
Casper has Persian, Medieval Christian tradition, Dutch, Scandinavian, German, and English origins. In Persian, it means "treasurer, keeper of treasure". In Medieval Christian tradition, it means "bringer of treasure (gift-bearer)".
Is Casper a boy or girl name?
Casper is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it is ranked #881. As a girl name, it is ranked #40936. Casper is more commonly used as a boy name.
How do you pronounce Casper?
Casper is pronounced k-ASP-er.
How popular is the name Casper?
Casper is currently ranked #881 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Casper?
Common nicknames for Casper include Cas.
What are good middle names for Casper?
Popular middle name pairings include Casper James, Casper William, Casper Thomas, Casper Louis, Casper Henry, and Casper Felix.
What are good sibling names for Casper?
Names that pair well with Casper as siblings include Felix, Jasper, Elspeth, Cosimo, Ottilie, and Hugo.
How many syllables does Casper have?
Casper has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Casper a common or rare name?
Casper is moderately common, ranked #881 for boys in the US. You will encounter it, but it stands out.
About the Name Casper
Casper is a boy name with Dutch, Scandinavian, German, and English origins . The name means "treasurer, keeper of treasure" in Persian .
Is Casper a boy or girl name? Casper is used as both a boy and girl name. As a boy name, it ranks #881 in popularity. As a girl name, it ranks #40,936. Casper is more commonly used as a boy name.
Casper is currently ranked #881 in popularity for boy names in the United States.
The name Casper has 2 syllables and is pronounced k-ASP-er, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
Common nicknames for Casper include Cas. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.
Alternative spellings of Casper include Caspian . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.