Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Poindexter

      Origin 
      English, Possibly Old French

      Meaning 
      Derived from Pointe And Dexter

      Variations 
      Toinette, Painter, Dextera

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Poindexter has its origins rooted in English and is derived from a combination of the words Pointe and Dexter. Pointe, which translates to point, can refer to a sharp feature or a physical location, while Dexter, meaning on the right side or right-handed, adds a sense of precision and skill to the name. As such, Poindexter can be interpreted as a name signifying someone who is adept or skilled in certain domains, possibly one who navigates life with precision.

      The surname Poindexter has historical significance, particularly in England and, later, in America. It emerged in the medieval period, influenced by the Norman Conquest of 1066, which brought a variety of Old French names into English culture. Over time, Poindexter became associated with various notable figures, especially during the expansion of the New World, where individuals bearing this surname left a mark in various regions, particularly in the Southern United States. The name has been recorded in historical documents and government records, reflecting a lineage that can be traced back several centuries.

      In contemporary society, Poindexter remains a relatively uncommon name but persists as an intriguing choice for both first and last names, often evoking a sense of intellectualism or quirkiness. The name has been popularized in popular culture through various media, where it is sometimes used to describe an overly intellectual or socially awkward character. Today, the name retains a unique charm, appealing to those who appreciate its historical roots and distinctive character, and it occasionally appears in fictional narratives, adding to its ongoing relevance.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Poindexter.
      Toney

      is the most common surname for Poindexter.

      Jane

      is the most common spouse name for Poindexter.

      Frances

      is the most common child name for Poindexter.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1847 is when there were the most people born with the first name Poindexter.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.