Morton
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Morton
Morton, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Morton
From the town near the moor
The name Morton is of English origin and means "from the moor town".
| Meaning | From the town near the moor |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #943 in 1951 Declining |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1920s) |
Background & History of The Name Morton
The name 'Morton' has various origins and meanings across different cultures. In English, it is derived from the Old English words 'mor' meaning marsh or moor and 'tun' meaning settlement or enclosure. Therefore, 'Morton' can be interpreted as referring to a settlement or village located near a marsh or moorland. This surname dates back to medieval times and can be found in numerous places around England, Scotland, and other English-speaking countries.
In addition to its English origin, the name 'Morton' also has connections to other cultures and languages. In Scottish Gaelic, it is believed to derive from the personal name 'Murchadh', which means "sea warrior" or "navigator". Alternatively, in some cases, Morton can be a variation of the name 'Mortimer', which is of French origin and refers to a person who lived near a cemetery or who was associated with death.
As a surname, 'Morton' has been adopted by notable individuals throughout history. One such example is Roger de Morton, an English knight who was documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Other prominent Mortons include the American journalist and syndicated columnist William Morton, the Canadian actor and comedian Rick Moranis, and the Australian-born Nobel Prize-winning scientist Roger Kornberg.
Furthermore, the name 'Morton' has also been used in various contexts beyond personal names. For instance, Morton Salt, a well-known American brand, was founded by Joy Morton in the late 1800s. Morton's Neuroma, a painful condition affecting the foot, was named after American surgeon Thomas George Morton. These examples highlight the diverse and widespread usage of the name 'Morton' in different fields and areas of life.
In conclusion, the name 'Morton' holds multiple meanings and origins, making it a fascinating and versatile name. From its English roots associated with marshes and settlements, to its Scottish Gaelic and French connections, 'Morton' has a rich etymology. Moreover, notable individuals and brands associated with this name further contribute to its prominence in various realms of society.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Morton over the years.
Similar English Baby Names
Check Initials
See what initials Morton would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Morton.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account