Horton

Origin and Meaning: Horton is an English surname with Anglo-Saxon origins. It is derived from the Old English words "horh" meaning dirty or muddy, and "tun" meaning settlement or enclosure. Therefore, the name likely referred to someone who lived near a dirty or muddy town or settlement.

Historical Significance: The Horton surname has ancient roots in England, with records dating back to the 11th century. The name was first found in the county of Northamptonshire, where the Horton family played a significant role in local history. Over the centuries, the Horton surname spread throughout England and eventually to other English-speaking countries.

Notable Individuals:

  • Ebenezer Horton (1808-1894): An English engineer and inventor known for his contributions to the field of manufacturing.
  • E. M. Horton (1886-1965): A British artist and illustrator renowned for his intricate and detailed drawings.
  • Peter Horton (b. 1953): An American actor and director, originally of British ancestry, known for his roles in television series.

Contemporary Distribution: Today, the Horton surname is found not only in the United Kingdom but also in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is a relatively common surname with diverse individuals bearing the name in various professions and walks of life.

Variants and Similar surnames: Variants of the Horton surname include Houghton, Hortin, and Horten. Similar surnames with comparable origins include Mudtown, Clarendon, and Ashburn.

References:

  • Reaney, Percy Hide. "A Dictionary of English Surnames." Oxford University Press, 1997.
  • Hanks, Patrick and Flavia Hodges. "A Dictionary of Surnames." Oxford University Press, 1988.

There are approximately 19,156 people named Horton in the UK. That makes it the 453rd most common surname in Britain. Around 294 in a million people in Britain are named Horton.

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
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Claire
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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