THORTON
Thorton
Thorton is a British surname of Old English origin, derived from the words "thorn," referring to the thorny shrub, and "tun," meaning a settlement or enclosure. The name Thorton is primarily found in the northern counties of England, such as Yorkshire and Lancashire.
Origins and History
The surname Thorton dates back to medieval England, where it was used to identify individuals living in or near a settlement surrounded by thorny bushes. The Thorton family is believed to have been landowners or farmers, reflecting their connection to the land.
Over the centuries, the surname Thorton has seen variations in spelling, such as Thornton, Thorneton, or Thorton. The Thorton family name has been well-documented in historical records, with some notable figures emerging over time.
Notable People
- Margaret Thorton (1809-1893): A prominent Victorian novelist known for her works exploring social issues and gender roles in England.
- Billy Thorton (b. 1971): A British actor and director, known for his performances in theatre and film productions.
Modern Distribution
Today, the surname Thorton is relatively uncommon but can still be found in various regions of the United Kingdom and beyond. The descendants of the Thorton family have branched out to different parts of the world through migration and emigration, spreading the name to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Cognates and Related Names
Variants of the Thorton surname include Thornton, Thorneton, and Thorton, reflecting the different spellings that have evolved over time.
In conclusion, the surname Thorton is a proud reflection of its English roots, symbolising a connection to the land and a rich history that continues to be cherished by those who bear the name.
There are approximately 102 people named Thorton in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Thorton.
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
- Adrian
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- Grant
- Ivan
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Carol
- Denise
- Elsie
- Emma
- Fatima
- Helen
- Joanne
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Maureen
- Sarah
- Sharon
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.