MallowbyNames

Chapin

CHAP-in · of uncertain origin; possibly a surname derived from Old French 'chapin' meaning 'shoemaker' or from the English place name Chapin

Peak popularity
1986
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Chapin since 1922

Babies named Chapin per year in U.S. Social Security records.

591419602000Most births 1986GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1920s010
1930s06
1940s00
1950s00
1960s00
1970s010
1980s066
1990s3479
2000s1156
2010s06
2020s00

Meaning & origin

The name Chapin is an uncommon choice with English surname origins. First recorded as a given name in 1922, it experienced its peak in 1986, yet has never entered the top 1,000 names in the United States. The trajectory has remained stable, suggesting a consistent but niche usage. Its meaning is uncertain, possibly derived from Old French 'chapin' for 'shoemaker' or from a place name. Chapin carries a preppy, distinguished aura, reminiscent of the musician Harry Chapin, though its usage remains rare. For parents seeking a distinctive name with surname flair and a touch of old-world craftsmanship, Chapin offers an offbeat alternative to more common surname-names.

Chapin is primarily an English surname, possibly derived from the Old French word 'chapin', meaning 'shoemaker', or from a place name. It has been used as a given name in the United States since the early 20th century, peaking in the 1980s. Its rarity and surname feel give it a distinctive, preppy character.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Chap

Sibling names for Chapin

Names that share Chapin's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

C is for Chapin, our favorite little boy.

C is for Chapin…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Chapin's letter becomes Chapin's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Chapin's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Chapin mean?
The origin of Chapin is uncertain. It may derive from the Old French word 'chapin', meaning 'shoemaker', or from a place name. It is historically a surname used as a given name.
How popular is the name Chapin?
Chapin is a rare name. It was first recorded as a given name in 1922, its peak year of use was 1986, and it has never ranked among the top 1,000 names in the United States.
Is Chapin a boy's name or a girl's name?
Chapin is typically used as a boy's name, though its rarity means it is not strongly gendered in practice.