Boston

The surname Boston originates from the town of Boston in Lincolnshire, England. It is a habitational surname, meaning it was derived from a place name. Boston in Lincolnshire was a significant port town in medieval times, known for its maritime trade and connections to the Hanseatic League. The name Boston itself is believed to have derived from the Old English words 'Botwulf' and 'tun', meaning Botwulf's settlement.

The first recorded instance of the surname Boston dates back to the 13th century, where it was used to denote individuals from or associated with the town of Boston in Lincolnshire. Over time, the surname spread to various parts of England and beyond as people migrated and settled in different regions.

Famous individuals bearing the surname Boston include American novelist and playwright L.M. Boston, whose real name was Lucy Maria Boston. The Boston surname has also been linked with notable achievements in various fields, reflecting the diverse contributions of individuals with this surname throughout history.

The popularity and prevalence of the Boston surname have ensured its enduring presence in British and global history, making it a distinctive part of the cultural tapestry of the United Kingdom.

There are approximately 2,585 people named Boston in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,426th most common surname in Britain. Around 40 in a million people in Britain are named Boston.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Jonathan
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Cheryl
  • Christine
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Gillian
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Jean
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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