Fenton is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "feþen," which means "feather." The name Fenton is also associated with several locations in England, including a village in Northumberland and a town in Leicestershire. These places may have contributed to the popularity of the name over time.
The meaning behind the name Fenton is often interpreted as "little fairy," due to its connection to feathers and the notion of lightweight, delicate beauty associated with fairies in folklore. This interpretation adds an enchanting element to the name, making it appealing for parents looking for a name that suggests grace and charm.
Historically, the name Fenton has been used for centuries in England. It was first recorded as a given name in the 13th century, appearing in documents such as the Yorkshire Poll Tax of 1379. However, it is believed to have originated even earlier as a surname, with records dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086.
Over time, Fenton has seen varying degrees of popularity. In its early history, it was more commonly used as a surname than a given name. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence in its use as a first name for boys. Today, Fenton is considered a charming and distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
In summary, the name Fenton is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "feþen," meaning "feather." Its meaning is often associated with lightweight beauty or fairies in folklore. Historically, it has been used as both a given name and a surname since the 13th century. While once more common as a surname, Fenton has seen renewed popularity as a first name in recent years.
The name Fenton has been given to a total of 2,023 babies born in the United States from 1883 to 2023. The number of births per year varied significantly during this period.
From 1883 to 1945, there were fluctuations in the number of births with the Fenton name, ranging from a low of 5 births in some years to a high of 39 births in 1915. However, after 1945, there was a noticeable decline in the popularity of the name, with fewer than 20 births per year occurring until the late 1990s.
Interestingly, the number of births with the Fenton name began to increase again around the turn of the century. Since 2001, there have been at least 9 births per year, reaching a high of 35 births in 2012 and 38 births in 2015.
Overall, while the Fenton name may not have been consistently popular throughout history, it has experienced a resurgence in recent years. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues in the coming years.