Chapman \ch(ap)-man\ as a boy's name is of Old English origin, and the meaning of Chapman is "peddler, trader". Surname and occupational name in the Middle Ages: chapmen usually sold chapbooks, pamphlets intended for a wide audience, even in the days of low literacy rates. Chapman has 3 variant forms: Chap, Chappy and Manny. View a list of the 2 names that reference Chapman.