Summary

The surname Poindexter is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the Middle English words 'poynt' meaning 'to point' and 'deixter' meaning 'right-handed'. It is thought to have originally referred to a skilled archer or someone who excelled at using a pointing device. Over time, the surname has spread to various parts of the world, particularly in the United States and United Kingdom. Poindexter may also be associated with academic achievement, as it gained popularity as a fictional surname for intelligent and geeky characters. Today, it is a relatively rare surname.
There are
11531
Poindexters in the USA
Poindexter is the
3129th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Poindexter

HenryPoindexter

Henry Poindexter was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Mississippi from 1837 to 1845.

SarahPoindexter

Sarah Poindexter was an American socialite and philanthropist known for her support of various charitable organizations in the early 20th century.

WilliamPoindexter

William Poindexter was a British explorer and naturalist who made significant contributions to the study of botany during the 19th century.

ElizabethPoindexter

Elizabeth Poindexter was an American suffragist and women's rights advocate who played a prominent role in the suffrage movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

ThomasPoindexter

Thomas Poindexter was a Scottish philosopher and theologian known for his influential works on moral philosophy and the nature of consciousness.

MargaretPoindexter

Margaret Poindexter was an American author and journalist who wrote extensively on social and political issues during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

JohnPoindexter

John Poindexter was an American naval officer and government official who served as the National Security Advisor under President Ronald Reagan.

CatherinePoindexter

Catherine Poindexter was an English actress known for her stage performances in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

RobertPoindexter

Robert Poindexter was an American songwriter and record producer who co-founded the musical group The Persuaders in the 1960s.

MaryPoindexter

Mary Poindexter was an American artist and sculptor known for her innovative use of materials and exploration of abstract forms in the mid-20th century.

Poindexter Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Poindexter' is of French origin and is derived from the Old French phrase 'poing d'estre', which means 'to be able'. It is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone with great strength or skill.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Poindexter' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern states such as Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Poindexter' include 'Poynter' and 'Poingdestre'.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Poindexter' is primarily associated with the African American community, as many individuals with this surname are descendants of former slaves.