ELPHINSTONE
Elphinstone
The surname Elphinstone is of Scottish origin, deriving from the barony of Elphinstone in East Lothian. The name is believed to have originated from the Old English elements "elf", meaning elf or sprite, and "stone", denoting a place or settlement.
The Elphinstone family's history can be traced back to the Norman Conquest, with early records dating back to the 12th century in Scotland. They rose to prominence with the construction of Elphinstone Tower in the 14th century, situated near Tranent.
Over the centuries, the Elphinstone family played significant roles in Scottish politics and military affairs. Notably, Sir Alexander Elphinstone, 1st Lord Elphinstone, served as Lord High Treasurer of Scotland in the 15th century. The family was later elevated to the peerage as the Baron Elphinstone and Viscount of Elphinstone.
Today, the surname Elphinstone persists as both a surname and a placename in Scotland and beyond. It carries a sense of heritage and nobility, reflecting the family's long-standing influence in Scottish history.
As with many Scottish surnames, variations and branches of the Elphinstone name can be found, reflecting the complexities of genealogy and family connections over time.
There are approximately 363 people named Elphinstone in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Elphinstone.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- George
- James
- John
- Neil
- Rob
- Robert
- William
Female
- Barbara
- Caroline
- Jane
- Joan
- Lucy
- Margaret
- Patricia
- Pauline
- Rebecca
- Valerie
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.