boy name · English origin
Carter
/ KAR-ter /
Meaning
Carter means Cart driver (English).
Gender
Boy
Origin
English
Pronunciation
KAR-ter
Popularity
#45 · U.S. boys (2025)
Popularity of Carter in the US, 1880–2025
Carter first appears in US records in 1881. It peaked in 2015, when 10,814 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 6,024.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
What does Carter mean?
Carter is an English occupational surname for one who drives or makes carts.
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Carter mean?
Carter means Cart driver. Carter is an English occupational surname for one who drives or makes carts.
What is the origin of the name Carter?
Carter is of English origin.
How do you pronounce Carter?
Carter is pronounced “KAR-ter.”
Is Carter a boy or a girl name?
Carter is most commonly used as a boy name.
How popular is the name Carter?
In 2025, Carter ranked #45 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Carter most popular?
Carter was most popular in 2015, when about 10,814 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.