Karter is a unique and distinctively modern boys' name with a clear origin and meaning. It comes from the English occupational surname "cartwright," which originally referred to someone who made or repaired carts. The name has evolved over time, shedding its suffix "-wright" and gaining popularity as a first name in its own right.
The history of Karter as a given name is relatively recent. While it may have been used occasionally in the past, it did not begin to gain widespread attention until the late 20th century. In recent years, however, its popularity has surged. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, Karter first appeared in the top 1000 boys' names in 2008 and has steadily climbed the ranks since then.
Despite its occupational origins, the name Karter is often associated with speed, power, and competition due to its similarity to words like "car" or "cart." This association may contribute to its popularity among parents who wish to bestow a strong and dynamic name upon their sons. However, it's essential to remember that the meaning of a name is ultimately shaped by the individual who bears it, and there are no inherent limitations on what someone named Karter can achieve.
In summary, Karter is an English occupational surname-turned-first-name with roots in cart-making and repair. While its modern popularity may be due in part to its perceived associations with speed and power, its true meaning lies in its historical origins and the unique qualities of each individual who carries the name.
The name Karter has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past two decades in the United States. In 1997, there were only 6 births with the name Karter. However, by 2023, that number had grown to 301 births.
From 2002 onwards, the number of babies named Karter began to rise steadily. Between 2002 and 2006, the number of births increased from 18 to 32, indicating a growing trend in popularity. This upward trajectory continued through 2015, with the highest number of births recorded that year at 410.
After 2015, the popularity of the name Karter began to fluctuate but remained consistently high. Between 2016 and 2023, the number of births ranged from 350 to 312, demonstrating that the name has maintained a strong level of popularity among parents in recent years.
Overall, since 1997, there have been a total of 4070 births in the United States with the name Karter. This significant increase over time suggests that the name has become more widely accepted and favored by parents in recent decades.