MallowbyNames

Gardiner

GARD-nur · Gamekeeper or guardian of the garden, from the Old French 'gardinier'.

Peak popularity
1913
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Gardiner since 1913

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

4913192019602000Most births 1918Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s41
1920s42
1930s21
1940s23
1950s27
1960s20
1970s21
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Gardiner is a rare occupational surname-turned-first-name, first appearing in U.S. Social Security records in 1913, the same year as its peak in usage. The name saw negligible usage after the early 20th century, reflecting its stable and obscure trajectory. As a variant of the more common Gardner, it offers a distinctive choice for parents seeking a surname name with a clear occupational meaning rooted in English history.

Gardiner is an occupational surname of Old French origin, derived from 'gardinier' meaning 'gardener' or 'keeper of the garden'. It was brought to England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. As a given name, it has been used sparingly since the late 19th century, often reflecting family surnames passed down as first names.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Gard, Gardy

Variants: Gardner, Gardner

Sibling names for Gardiner

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

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

G is for Gardiner, our favorite little boy.

G is for Gardiner…”

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

Make Gardiner's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Gardiner mean?
Gardiner means 'gardener' or 'keeper of the garden', originating as an occupational surname from Old French.
Is Gardiner a popular name today?
Gardiner has never ranked in the top 1000 U.S. names. It was first recorded in 1913 and has remained rare, with no recorded births in recent years.
Is Gardiner a boy name or a girl name?
Gardiner is traditionally a boy's name, though it has occasionally been used for girls.