Cartwright

Cartwright is a prominent English and Scottish surname derived from the Old English word "cart" meaning a cart or wagon, and "wright" which refers to a craftsman. The name signifies one who builds carts or wagons. It is an occupational surname, indicating a person who worked as a cartwright, a skilled maker of carts and wagons.

The Cartwright surname is most commonly found in England and Scotland, with a long history dating back to medieval times. The Cartwright family name is associated with craftsmanship, ingenuity, and hard work. Many Cartwrights were known for their skills in carpentry, woodworking, and metalworking, specializing in creating and repairing carts, wagons, and other wheeled vehicles.

The Cartwright name has been borne by notable individuals throughout history, including entrepreneurs, inventors, and artists. It has also been featured in literature and popular culture, most notably in the long-running television series "Bonanza," where the patriarch of the Cartwright family was Ben Cartwright, owner of the Ponderosa Ranch.

Today, the surname Cartwright continues to be held by many individuals worldwide, with descendants of the original Cartwrights having spread to various countries. The name serves as a reminder of a time when skilled craftsmen played a crucial role in society and highlights the importance of preserving traditional trades and professions.

There are approximately 24,003 people named Cartwright in the UK. That makes it the 345th most common surname in Britain. Around 369 in a million people in Britain are named Cartwright.

Surname type: Occupational name

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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