HOUGHTON
Houghton
Originating from England, the surname Houghton is a notable topographical surname derived from several places across the country. The name is derived from the Old English words "hoh" meaning "spur of a hill" or "ridge" and "tun" meaning "settlement" or "enclosure". This suggests that the name was originally given to individuals who lived near or on a spur of a hill.
History
The first recorded instance of the surname Houghton dates back to the early 12th century in Cambridgeshire, England. The name was later spread across various counties in England, such as Norfolk and Lancashire, as families moved and settled in different regions.
Notable Individuals
- Katharine Houghton Hepburn - An acclaimed American actress known for her leading roles in classic films such as "The Philadelphia Story" and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner".
- Sir Bob Houghton - An English football manager who has managed several clubs and national teams around the world.
Variations
Variations of the surname Houghton include Haughton, Houghten, and Houghtoun.
Coat of Arms
The Houghton Coat of Arms is described as a silver shield with a black chevron between three cross crosslets fitchee black.
Legacy
The surname Houghton continues to be borne by various families around the world, especially in regions with historical connections to England. The name has maintained its legacy through the achievements and contributions of individuals who have carried the name throughout history.
There are approximately 21,486 people named Houghton in the UK. That makes it the 404th most common surname in Britain. Around 330 in a million people in Britain are named Houghton.
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
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jane
- Joanne
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.