Carter Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Carter come from? What does the surname Carter mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Carter and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Carter Origin: What does the last name Carter mean?
The surname Carter has roots in Irish, Scottish, and English origins, stemming from the Celtic word "cairt," meaning cart. This occupational name was given to individuals who transported goods by cart or wagon. The name has ties to the Proto-Indo-European word "kars" or "kart," referring to a wheeled vehicle. The earliest recorded use of the surname Carter dates back to 1192–1193 in England, during the reign of King Richard I. Over time, the name evolved into various forms like McCarter, Mac Artair, and more, reflecting influences from Norman French and Gaelic languages.
Today, Carter is the 44th most common surname in the United States and the 56th most common in England. In Ireland, it ranks as the 70th most common surname, notably found in County Laois and other regions like Dublin and Cork. The surname Carter also has a significant presence in Scotland, particularly in the Outer Hebrides. The name Carter has a diverse history, reflecting the assimilation of various cultures and influences over the centuries, contributing to its widespread presence in different parts of the world.
Carter Last Name History: Where did the last name Carter come from?
Origin of Carter Surname: Where does the last name Carter originate from?
Based on the YourRoots database, the surname Carter was first documented in records from England around the early 13th century. This data pertains specifically to the "Carter" spelling in our records and does not consider other potential sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Carter: What does the Carter surname history look like in the early days?
The "Carter" surname was closely linked with England from the 13th to the 15th century, according to YourRoots data. The data also illustrates that the Carter surname began to appear more frequently in other countries such as the United States, suggesting a global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Carter surname today?
By the 17th century, data from YourRoots shows a substantial increase in the frequency of the Carter surname in the United States. The trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, surpassing the frequency in the United Kingdom. Today, the "Carter" surname is common not only in the United States but also in various countries around the globe, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, and more.
Explore Carter last name heritage and Carter surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME CARTER
Famous People With Carter Surame?
Helena Bonham Carter
Helena Bonham Carter (May 26, 1966 - ) is an English actress known for her roles in blockbusters like the Harry Potter series and independent films. She has received numerous awards and nominations for her performances in period dramas, showcasing her talent for playing quirky and eccentric characters. With a career spanning over three decades, Bonham Carter has captivated audiences with her unique fashion sense and dark aesthetic. From portraying Queen Elizabeth in "The King's Speech" to Princess Margaret in "The Crown," she has showcased her versatility and acting prowess. Bonham Carter's collaborations with director Tim Burton have also left a lasting impact on popular culture.
Blue Ivy Carter
Blue Ivy Carter (January 7, 2012 - present) is an American singer and actress, known for being the daughter of musicians Beyoncé and Jay-Z. She made history as the youngest person to have a Billboard chart entry with her cries featured on Jay-Z's song "Glory." Carter won a Grammy Award for her 2019 single "Brown Skin Girl" and made her feature film debut in 2024. With a growing presence in the entertainment industry, Carter continues to captivate audiences with her talent and charm.
Lynda Carter
Lynda Jean Cordova Carter (born July 24, 1951) is an American actress, singer, and beauty pageant contestant. She is best known for her iconic portrayal of Wonder Woman in the television series of the same name, which aired from 1975 to 1979. Carter has also appeared in various films and television series, including roles in "Super Troopers," "Sky High," and "Wonder Woman 1984." In addition to her acting career, she has received numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Gracie Awards. Carter continues to be celebrated for her role as the beloved superheroine.
Dixie Carter
Dixie Virginia Carter (May 25, 1939 – April 10, 2010) was an American actress known for her roles in popular TV shows like "Designing Women" and "Family Law." She also appeared in Broadway productions like "Sextet" and "Master Class." Carter gained fame for her portrayal of sharp-tongued characters, particularly as Julia Sugarbaker in "Designing Women," earning her a Primetime Emmy nomination. With a career spanning television, stage, and voice acting, Carter left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry before her passing in 2010.
Amy Carter
Amy Lynn Carter (born Oct 19, 1967) is the daughter of the 39th U.S. president Jimmy Carter. She gained attention as a child living in the White House during her father's presidency. Known for her activism against apartheid and the CIA, Carter later pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a master's degree in art history. She continues to be involved in political and humanitarian efforts, serving on the board of counselors of the Carter Center. Carter married James Gregory Wentzel and has a son named Hugo James Wentzel.
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