HOME > Meaning of the Last Name Carter
Introduction
The last name Carter is a popular surname in English-speaking countries. It is derived from the occupational name for a transporter of goods by cart or wagon. The name has a rich history and meaning, and this article will explore its origins, variations, notable people with the surname, and how to trace your Carter ancestry.
Origins of the Name Carter
The name Carter is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word 'craetere,' which means 'one who uses a cart.' The name was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as 'Cartere.' It was a common occupational name during the Middle Ages, as carts and wagons were essential for transportation of goods.
Variations of the Name Carter
The name Carter has several variations, including Cartier, Chartier, and Charpentier. Cartier is a French variation of the name, and it means 'cart driver.' Chartier is also a French variation, and it means 'one who makes or sells paper.' Charpentier is a French variation that means 'carpenter.'
Notable People with the Surname Carter
There have been many notable people with the surname Carter throughout history. Some of the most famous include: 1. Jimmy Carter - 39th President of the United States 2. Jay-Z (Shawn Corey Carter) - American rapper and businessman 3. Helena Bonham Carter - English actress 4. Aaron Carter - American singer and actor 5. Vince Carter - American retired basketball player 6. Howard Carter - British archaeologist who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun 7. Chris Carter - American television writer and producer 8. Angela Carter - English writer and journalist 9. Benny Carter - American jazz musician 10. Elliot Carter - American composer
Genealogy of the Carter Family
If you are interested in tracing your Carter ancestry, there are several resources available to help you. The first step is to gather as much information as possible about your family history. Talk to your relatives, search through family records, and use online genealogy databases. Once you have gathered some basic information, you can start to trace your family tree. There are many online resources available to help you with this, including Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com. It is also a good idea to join a genealogy society or group. These organizations can provide you with valuable resources and support as you research your family history. Some popular genealogy societies include the National Genealogical Society, the International Society of Genetic Genealogy, and the Association of Professional Genealogists.
Conclusion
The last name Carter has a rich history and meaning. It is derived from the Old English word for 'one who uses a cart' and was a common occupational name during the Middle Ages. Today, there are many variations of the name, and it is a popular surname in English-speaking countries. There have been many notable people with the surname Carter throughout history, including Jimmy Carter, Jay-Z, and Helena Bonham Carter. If you are interested in tracing your Carter ancestry, there are many resources available to help you, including online genealogy databases and genealogy societies. Whether you are a Carter by birth or by marriage, the name has a proud history and legacy that you can be proud of.
