Carr Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Carr come from? What does the surname Carr mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Carr and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Carr Origin: What does the last name Carr mean?
The surname Carr is a common name with origins in northern England, deriving from the Middle English term meaning "brushwood wet ground." It is also linked to the Old Norse word for "brushwood" or "thicket," as well as the Gaelic word for "dusky" or the Irish nickname for "short of height." In some cases, it may even have connections to the Welsh word for "giant." The surname has historical roots in England, Scotland, and Ireland, with variations in spelling and meanings over time.
According to YourRoots data, the Carr surname has a long history in the United Kingdom, dating back to the early 15th century. It has since spread to various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where it remains prevalent today. The surname's diverse origins and meanings reflect a rich tapestry of linguistic influences and cultural connections, making it a fascinating subject for those interested in genealogy and family history research.
Carr Last Name History: Where did the last name Carr come from?
Origin of Carr Surname: Where does the last name Carr originate from?
The Carr surname can be traced back to the United Kingdom, specifically in England, where it first surfaced in the early 15th century, as per YourRoots data. It is important to note that this refers to the exact spelling of "Carr" and does not encompass other possible variations or sources.
History of the Last Name Carr: What does the Carr surname history look like in the early days?
The Carr surname remained predominantly tied to the United Kingdom, specifically England, from the 15th to the 16th century. However, YourRoots data shows a significant increase in the volume of Carr family records in the United States starting from the 17th century, indicative of a notable spread during this period.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Carr surname today?
The considerable growth in the volume of records bearing the Carr surname continued in the United States from the 17th century onward, even surpassing the United Kingdom by the 18th century. Today, the Carr surname is most prevalent in the United States, but it also appears in other countries worldwide. YourRoots data shows the Carr surname in many countries including, but not limited to, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Explore Carr last name heritage and Carr surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Carr Surame?
Jimmy Carr
James Anthony Patrick Carr (born Sep 15, 1972) is an Irish-British comedian, presenter, and actor known for his rapid-fire deadpan delivery. Starting his career in 1997, he hosts popular shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats and The Big Fat Quiz of the Year. Carr's wit and humor have made him a staple on television, with appearances on shows like Top Gear and A League of Their Own. Despite personal challenges, Carr's talent has shone through, earning him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim in the comedy world.
Charmian Carr
Charmian Anne Carr (December 27, 1942 – September 17, 2016) was an American actress best known for her role as Liesl in the 1965 film The Sound of Music. She unexpectedly landed the part and became a beloved figure in the iconic musical. After her acting career, she focused on interior design and writing. Carr's legacy lives on through her timeless performance in the classic movie.
Derek Carr
Derek Dallas Carr (born Mar 28, 1991) is an American professional football quarterback for the New Orleans Saints of the NFL. He played college football for the Fresno State Bulldogs and was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2014. Carr is a four-time Pro Bowler and holds multiple franchise passing records. Known for his strong arm and leadership on the field, Carr has led his teams to playoff appearances, including helping the Raiders reach the postseason in 2016 after a long drought. With a bright future ahead, Carr continues to make a mark in the world of professional football.
Eric Carr
Paul Charles Caravello (July 12, 1950 – November 24, 1991), known as Eric Carr, was the drummer for the rock band Kiss from 1980 until his passing. He joined Kiss as the replacement for Peter Criss and created the persona "Eric Carr." Carr's drumming skills and stage presence contributed to Kiss's success during his time with the band. Despite his untimely death from heart cancer, Eric Carr's legacy lives on through his music and impact on the rock music scene.
Liz Carr
Elizabeth Anne Carr (April 21, 1972 - ) is an English actress, comedian, broadcaster, and international disability rights activist. Known for her role as Clarissa Mullery in the BBC series Silent Witness and her advocacy for disabled rights, Carr has made significant contributions to both the entertainment industry and the fight for equality. With a background in law and a strong presence in the comedy scene, she continues to inspire and educate audiences through her work on screen and in the community.
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