ORTON
Orton
Orton is a surname of English origin with roots tracing back to medieval times. It is derived from several place names in England, including Orton in Cumbria, Leicestershire, and Northamptonshire. The name Orton is typically associated with agricultural communities and rural landscapes.
Origins and Meaning
The surname Orton is believed to have originated from the Old English word "ortun", meaning an enclosure or settlement. This suggests that early bearers of the surname could have been associated with farmsteads or agricultural land.
Distribution and Popularity
Orton is a relatively uncommon surname in England, with the majority of individuals bearing this name located in the northern counties such as Cumbria and Northamptonshire. Over the centuries, the surname Orton may have spread to other parts of the country and even overseas as a result of migration and emigration.
Notable Individuals
Joe Orton (1933-1967): Joe Orton was a renowned playwriter and author known for his dark comedies and satirical works. His most famous plays include "Entertaining Mr Sloane" and "Loot."
Beth Orton (b. 1970): Beth Orton is a British singer-songwriter known for her folk and electronic music. She gained international acclaim with her albums "Trailer Park" and "Central Reservation."
Coat of Arms
The Orton coat of arms consists of traditional heraldic elements such as a shield, lion motifs, and a crest. The specific design and colours of the coat of arms may vary depending on the branch of the Orton family.
In conclusion, the surname Orton carries a rich history and has produced notable individuals in various fields. From its agricultural origins to the modern-day, the name Orton continues to be a part of British heritage and culture.
There are approximately 5,947 people named Orton in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,595th most common surname in Britain. Around 91 in a million people in Britain are named Orton.
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
- John
- Mark
- Matthew
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Joan
- Joanne
- Julie
- Linda
- Margaret
- Patricia
- 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.