Payne is an English surname and given name, derived from the occupational term 'paine', which refers to someone who was employed as a maker of cloth or clothing. The name Payne is of Old French origin, brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066. It is thought to have been derived from the Old French word 'peine', meaning 'cloth' or 'garment'. Over time, Payne has also become associated with the Middle English word 'payne', meaning 'suffering' or 'pain', although this is not its primary origin. The name Payne became popular in England during the medieval period and has since been passed down through generations. Today, Payne is still used as a surname but has also gained recognition as a given name for both boys and girls.
"In a span of eight years, from 1994 to 2002, there were eleven babies named Payne."