DISTON

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Diston

The surname Diston is of English origin and is mainly found in the region of Yorkshire. It is believed to be an occupational surname, derived from the Middle English word "dyster" or "dysterne," which refers to a person who worked as a dyer. Dyers were skilled craftsmen responsible for colouring fabrics and textiles using natural dyes.

The earliest recorded instance of the Diston surname dates back to the 14th century in Yorkshire, England. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname may have evolved, leading to different variations such as Dyston or Daston.

Individuals bearing the Diston surname likely have ancestors who were involved in the dyeing industry, reflecting the importance of textile production in medieval England. As with many occupational surnames, the name would have been passed down through generations, becoming a hereditary family name.

Today, individuals with the surname Diston can be found across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world as a result of migration and globalisation. The name continues to be a reminder of a bygone era when skilled craftsmen played a vital role in the textile industry of England.

References:

Reaney, P.H., Wilson, R.M. A Dictionary of English Surnames. Routledge, 1991.
Hanks, P., Coats, F.K, McClure, P. The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press, 2016.

There are approximately 421 people named Diston in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Diston.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Andrew
Anthony
Christopher
David
Eric
Graeme
James
John
Mark
Paul
Richard
Robert

Female

Helen
Karen
Linda
Margaret
Michelle
Nicola
Rebecca
Samantha
Sarah
Sharon

Similar and related surnames

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