Wright Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Wright come from? What does the surname Wright mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Wright and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Wright Origin: What does the last name Wright mean?
The surname Wright is an occupational name with roots in England and Scotland. It originated from the Old English word 'wryhta' or 'wyrhta', meaning worker or shaper of wood. Over time, it evolved to encompass various occupational workers, such as shipwrights, wheelwrights, and playwrights. As of 2014, Wright was the eleventh most common surname in England.
YourRoots data shows that the Wright surname has been present in the United Kingdom since the early 14th century. It spread to the United States in the 16th century and has since become widespread, particularly among individuals of English, Scottish, and Irish descent. Today, the Wright surname can be found in countries worldwide, indicating its global distribution and enduring legacy in various cultures and regions.
Wright Last Name History: Where did the last name Wright come from?
Origin of Wright Surname: Where does the last name Wright originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Wright first appeared in records from the United Kingdom around the early 14th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Wright” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Wright: What does the Wright surname history look like in the early days?
The “Wright” surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 14th through the 15th century. The onset of the 16th century saw a considerable volume of Wright family records appearing in the United States, indicating the beginning of its spread across the Atlantic.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Wright surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Wright surname had grown significantly in the United States, surpassing its frequency in the United Kingdom. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, solidifying the United States as a significant hub for the Wright surname. Today, the “Wright” surname remains prominent in the United States but can also be found in many other countries across the globe, reflecting its widespread distribution over the centuries.
Explore Wright last name heritage and Wright surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Wright Surame?
Robin Wright
Robin Gayle Wright (April 8, 1966 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV shows and movies. She gained fame for her role as Kelly Capwell in the soap opera "Santa Barbara" before transitioning to film with iconic roles in "The Princess Bride" and "Forrest Gump." Wright received critical acclaim for her performances in independent films like "Loved" and "Nine Lives." She later starred in the hit series "House of Cards" as Claire Underwood, earning a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy nominations. Wright has also directed episodes of the show and other films, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry.
Jeffrey Wright
Jeffrey Wright (Dec 7, 1965 - present) is an American actor known for his diverse roles in theater, film, and television. He has won several prestigious awards, including a Tony Award for his role in Angels in America and a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance in the HBO series Westworld. Wright has appeared in major franchises like James Bond, The Hunger Games, and Marvel's What If...? He is praised for his versatility and compelling portrayals, showcasing his talent across various genres and mediums.
Teresa Wright
Muriel Teresa Wright (Oct 27, 1918 – Mar 6, 2005) was an award-winning American actress known for her roles in classic films like "Mrs. Miniver," "Shadow of a Doubt," and "The Best Years of Our Lives." She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and was the first actor to receive nominations for her first three films. Wright's talent and professionalism earned her praise from directors like Alfred Hitchcock and William Wyler, solidifying her legacy as a prominent figure in Hollywood's Golden Age.
Isaac Hempstead Wright
Isaac Hempstead Wright (April 9, 1999 - ) is a British actor best known for his role as Bran Stark in the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. He gained fame for his portrayal of the young Stark boy in the popular fantasy series, earning critical acclaim and award nominations. Outside of Game of Thrones, he has also appeared in films like The Boxtrolls and The Awakening. With a promising acting career ahead of him, Isaac continues to captivate audiences with his talent and versatility on screen.
Samuel E. Wright
Samuel Ernest Wright (November 20, 1946 – May 24, 2021) was an American actor best known for lending his iconic voice to Sebastian the Crab in Disney's The Little Mermaid. He also portrayed Mufasa in the original Broadway cast of The Lion King and voiced Kron in the film Dinosaur. Wright's talents were not limited to acting; he also recorded music for The Little Mermaid and released soul singles. With a successful career in film, theater, and music, Wright left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
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