What is Colgate named after?

Colgate is named after its founder, William Colgate.

Colgate, a globally recognized brand synonymous with oral hygiene products, derives its name directly from the individual who established the company. William Colgate, an English-American businessman, founded a starch, soap, and candle business in New York City in 1806, which eventually evolved into the modern-day Colgate-Palmolive company.

The Name's Origin

The brand's identity is intrinsically linked to its founder. While the company's name honors William Colgate, the surname "Colgate" itself possesses an older, interesting etymology rooted in Old English.

William Colgate: The Founder

• Founder's Legacy: William Colgate established what would become one of the world's leading consumer product companies. His entrepreneurial spirit and initial ventures laid the groundwork for the diverse range of products Colgate offers today.
• Company Evolution: The company, originally focusing on candles and soaps, expanded its product lines over the decades, eventually introducing toothpaste and other personal care items that made the Colgate name famous worldwide. For more details on the founder, you can explore the life of William Colgate.

Etymological Roots of the Surname

The surname "Colgate" is believed to be of placename origin, meaning it derives from a geographical location. Linguistic analysis suggests its composition from two Old English words:

Therefore, the surname "Colgate" likely refers to a place characterized by a "coal gate" or an entrance associated with coal. This provides a deeper historical context to the name behind the iconic brand.