Colton is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English words "col" meaning "coal" or "black," and "tun" meaning "settlement." Therefore, Colton can be translated as "settlement by the coal mine." This name was traditionally given to boys born into families that worked in the coal mining industry.
The name Colton gained popularity during the 19th century as coal mining became more widespread in England. It is still used today, although it has become less common since its peak popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Colton is a strong and distinctive name that carries with it a sense of history and heritage. Its meaning adds to its appeal, as it suggests resilience and determination, qualities associated with those who worked tirelessly in the coal mines. However, it is important to note that Colton is not solely reserved for boys born into mining families; it can be given to any boy whose parents appreciate its unique origin and meaning.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Colton. One of the most famous is Colton Harris-Moore, also known as the "Barefoot Bandit," who gained international notoriety for his string of burglaries committed between 2008 and 2010. Another notable figure is Colton Haynes, an American actor best known for his role in the television series "Arrow."
In popular culture, Colton has been used as a character name in various movies, TV shows, books, and video games. For example, it is the name of one of the main characters in the young adult novel "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green.
Overall, Colton is an attractive and unique name with a rich history and meaningful origin. Its association with coal mining gives it a rugged and masculine appeal, while its distinct sound makes it stand out among other names. Whether given as a tribute to family history or simply for its appealing qualities, the name Colton is sure to make a lasting impression.
The name Colton has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past century in the United States. Between 1913 and 2023, there have been a total of 144,882 births with the name Colton.
In the early 20th century, the name was quite rare, with only six births recorded in 1913. However, by the late 1950s and early 1960s, there was a noticeable increase in popularity, with over ten births each year between 1961 and 1972.
The name Colton gained even more traction in the 1980s and 1990s. In 1982, there were 123 births, which doubled to 236 by 1986. The number of births continued to rise steadily throughout the 1990s, reaching an all-time high of 5,736 in 2019.
However, since then, the popularity of the name Colton has started to decline. In 2020 and 2021, there were fewer than 5,000 births each year, and in 2022, there were only 3,921 births recorded. This downward trend suggests that while Colton was once one of the most popular baby boy names in recent years, its popularity may be waning.
Despite this recent decline, Colton remains a classic name with a rich history. It has been consistently popular for several decades and is likely to remain a staple among American parents for many years to come.