Origin & Meaning of the Cantwell Surname
What does the last name Cantwell mean?
The surname Cantwell carries the meaning "From a spring or stream." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 6,635 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Cantwell ranks as the #5,259 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Cantwell come from?
The Cantwell surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Cantwell name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Cantwell trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Cantwell |
|---|---|
| Meaning | From a spring or stream |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #5,259 |
| US Count (2010) | 6,635 |
| Per 100K People | 2.25 |
| First Letter | C |
Ethnic Distribution of Cantwell
According to the US Census, the Cantwell surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 6,635 Americans with the Cantwell last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 94.27% |
| Black | 0.17% |
| Hispanic | 3.06% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.51% |
| Native American | 0.68% |
| Two or More Races | 1.31% |
Popularity of Cantwell Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Cantwell surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Cantwell surname increased by 157 between 2000 and 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cantwell
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