Broughton is a rare and unique given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "broc", which means "badger", combined with the suffix "-ton" that indicates a settlement or town. Therefore, the meaning of Broughton can be interpreted as "settlement where badgers live".
The name Broughton has a rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period in England. It is believed to have originated from place names in England such as Broughton in Furness, Cumbria and Broughton, Buckinghamshire. These places were likely named after the badger setts found there.
In medieval times, the name Broughton was used as a given name as well as a surname. It is mentioned in various historical documents and records from this period. For example, a Robert de Broughton was listed in the Hundred Rolls of 1273, while a John Broughton was recorded in the Calendars of Patent Rolls in 1469.
Today, Broughton remains a rare but distinct given name. It is often associated with people who are creative and independent thinkers, reflecting perhaps the tenacity and resilience of the badger from which it derives its meaning. However, it is important to note that this interpretation may vary depending on individual perceptions and cultural backgrounds.
In conclusion, Broughton is a unique and historical given name of English origin, derived from the Old English word for "badger" and the suffix "-ton". Its rich history dates back to medieval times, with mentions in various historical records. Despite its rarity today, it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an unusual but meaningful name for their child.
The name Broughton has seen a fluctuating popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 65 births recorded since 1915. The name's peak of popularity occurred in the recent past, with 6 births recorded in 2017.
From 1915 to 1946, there were several periods where Broughton was given to multiple children each year, with a high of 8 births in both 1920 and 1921. However, the name's popularity seemed to decline during the following decades, as it was given to only 5 or fewer babies per year between 1930 and 2017.
Despite its ups and downs in popularity, Broughton remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking for something different. Its relatively low total number of births may indicate that it is not yet mainstream, allowing those who choose the name to stand out from more common options.