The origin of the last name Carper?

Answer 1

There are at least 2 Carper family lines in America that are distinct from one another, one being of German origin, and the other of unknown origin. The majority of the Carpers in America are of German origin, but there are some Carpers that originated elsewhere, most likely from the British Isles. This surname Carper could originate from the following origins below.

1. German (Virginia and West Virginia): Variants include Korper, Korber, Koerber, and Körber, it is an occupational name for a basketmaker. This surname Carper/Korper is also found in the Netherlands, perhaps of same derivative. See related links below.

2. German, Polish, Jewish, Slavic: It is possible that Carper could derive from Karper, also as Karp, a name for a carp fisherman. See related links below.

3. English (Lancashire, London): The surname Carper is also found in England, mostly in county Lancashire and London. The origin of the English Carper could originate from the following:

1. English: A variant of the English surname Carver.

2. English and French: A variant of the English surname Corper, which is a variant of the English surname Corpe, derived from Old French corp, meaning, 'raven'.

3. English and French: There is also a possibility that Carper could be a variant of the English surname Carp, also as Carpe, which could derived from the Old French carpe (fish), or Middle English carp. See related links below.

4. Irish and Scottish? (Cork and Angus): A variant of the Irish surname Carver, of unexplained origin. This surname Carver is also found in Angus, Scotland. A variant surname is McCarver. Perhaps the same dervative as the English Carver, or perhaps of Gaelic origin.