Carter: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced KAHR-ter · 2 syllables
Carter means “cart driver”, from English.
As an English name, from the occupation carter. As an Irish name, from Irish Mac Artuir (literally “son of Arthur”).
- Meaning
- cart driver
- Origin
- English
- Pronunciation
- KAHR-ter
- US rank (2025)
- #45
- US babies a year
- about 6,962 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2010
How popular is Carter?
Carter was the #45 name in the US in 2025, given to 6,703 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 31% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
Most popular in Wyoming (#7).
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #45 |
| England & Wales | #64 |
| Scotland | #53 |
| Northern Ireland | #96 |
| Ireland | #306 |
| Canada | #76 |
| Australia | #64 |
How old are people named Carter?
Half of US adults named Carter are older than 22; most are between 18 and 58. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Carter
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Carter
What does the name Carter mean?
Carter means “cart driver”. It comes from English.
How do you pronounce Carter?
Carter is pronounced KAHR-ter.
How popular is the name Carter?
Carter was the #45 name in the US in 2025, given to 6,703 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 31% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
How old are people named Carter?
Half of US adults named Carter are older than 22. Most are between 18 and 58.