Summary

The surname Dexter is of English origin and is derived from the Latin word 'dexter', meaning 'skilled' or 'right-handed'. It is a surname associated with various professions, such as tailors, dyers, and glove-makers. The Dexter family history can be traced back to medieval England.
There are
10099
Dexters in the USA
Dexter is the
3535th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Dexter

SamuelDexter

American politician and lawyer who served as the United States Secretary of War and United States Secretary of the Treasury.

ElizabethDexter

English writer known for her poetry and novels during the 18th century.

JohnDexter

British theater director who became renowned for his work in the field of opera and stage productions.

DanielDexter

German composer and pianist who composed numerous classical music pieces during the 19th century.

EmilyDexter

American suffragist and women's rights activist who played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement in the early 20th century.

Dexter Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Dexter originated from England and has Norman-French roots.
Geographic DistributionThe surname Dexter is found predominantly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
VariationsVariations of the surname Dexter include Dexford, Dexton, and Dextar.
Migration and ImmigrationThe migration and immigration of individuals with the surname Dexter occurred during various times and in different places. Some migrations took place during colonial times when settlers from England moved to the American colonies. Later waves of migration occurred during periods of industrialization and economic opportunities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Places of significant migration and immigration include England, the United States, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking countries. Reasons for migration and immigration varied and encompassed factors such as seeking better economic prospects, religious freedom, and escaping political conflicts.