📅 Since 1881🏆 17 years in top 1000.56% of births at peak
How to pronounce Carter
KAH·rter
/ˈkɑ.rtɝ/ · stress on KAH · 2 syllables
“One who transports goods by cart.”
American origin · Boy name
What does Carter mean and where does it come from?
Though typically seen as a masculine surname, Carter has increasingly been used as a female given name in modern contexts, particularly in the United States. The name's origins are occupational, rooted in the Old English word ‘cyrtere.’ While its historical use as a given name has surged in the 21st
Cultural significance
Carter has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of one who transports goods by cart..
Holding steady — currently #48 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1885–2023#48 · Top 0.04%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#48
5,870
▼ down 1 · -8% births
2022
#47
6,356
▼ down 8 · -12% births
2021
#39
7,202
▼ down 6 · -4% births
2020
#33
7,511
▼ down 9 · -30% births
2015
#24
10,780
▲ up 24 · +32% births
2010
#48
8,156
▲ up 29 · +38% births
2005
#77
5,899
▲ up 75 · +131% births
2000
#152
2,550
▲ up 134 · +177% births
1995
#286
919
▲ up 265 · +176% births
1990
#551
333
▲ up 115 · +89% births
1985
#666
176
▲ up 262 · +91% births
1980
#928
92
▼ down 293 · -43% births
1975
#635
162
▲ up 21 · +4% births
1970
#656
156
▲ up 40 · +37% births
1965
#696
114
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Carter
2015Rank #24
10,780
#458
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Carter
Carter has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. Its peak popularity was #24 in 2015. More than 181,692 babies have been named Carter since 1881. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #637 in 1885 to #48 in 2023. Carter is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
Carter means "One who transports goods by cart." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Carter?
Carter is currently ranked #48 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Carter?
Carter originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Carter?
Carter is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 R T ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Carter more of a girl or boy name?
Carter is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Carter
For a sister
Carter & Avery♡
Carter & Madison♡
Carter & Ivy♡
Carter & Willow♡
For a brother
Carter & Oliver♡
Carter & Elijah♡
Carter & Hudson♡
Carter & Ethan♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#48
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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