Lawton is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "hlaw" which means "hill," and the suffix "-ton," which signifies a settlement or farm. Therefore, Lawton translates to "settlement on a hill."
The name Lawton has been present in England since the Middle Ages but it was not commonly used as a given name until the 20th century. It is believed that the name originated from one of several places called Lawton in Cheshire, Staffordshire, and Northumberland.
Throughout history, the name Lawton has been predominantly associated with the aristocracy. The first recorded use of the name was in the Domesday Book of 1086 where it was listed as a landowner's surname. Since then, several notable individuals have carried the name Lawton, including Sir Richard Lawton, a knight who fought alongside Henry V at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415.
While Lawton is not a particularly popular name today, it remains a unique and historic choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet significant name for their child. Its meaning "settlement on a hill" can evoke images of picturesque landscapes and historical roots, making it an attractive option for those interested in English history or nature-inspired names.
In conclusion, Lawton is an Old English given name with a rich history and unique meaning. Derived from the words "hlaw" and "-ton," it translates to "settlement on a hill." While not commonly used today, its historical associations and meaningful origin make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a memorable name for their child.
These statistics show a fluctuating trend in the number of births named Lawton over time, with several periods of notable increase and decrease. The years between 1889 to 1968 demonstrate steady growth, peaking at 42 births in 2003, followed by a decline until around 2017 when the numbers started rising again, reaching a recent high of 48 births in 2021. However, there are significant drops and fluctuations throughout, such as the dip from 36 births in 1954 to 13 births in 1959, and the decrease from 43 births in 2020 to 28 births in 2022. Overall, while there is a general upward trend since the late 1970s, the popularity of the name Lawton has varied considerably over time.