Norton

The name 'Norton' is a surname of English origin, which derives from the Old English personal name 'Northun', meaning "north town". It is considered a habitational name, given to someone who lived in a settlement located to the north of a larger town or city. The name has a long history and can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it is first recorded as 'Nortone'. Over time, the spelling of the name has evolved, with variations such as Nortun, Norton, and Nordon.

Norton is a relatively common surname and can be found in various regions across England. The distribution of the name suggests that it originated in counties such as Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, and Yorkshire. As with many surnames, the dispersion of the name has expanded as people have migrated and settled in different areas.

Throughout history, individuals with the surname Norton have achieved notable accomplishments in various fields. For instance, Charles Eliot Norton (1827-1908) was an influential American scholar and author, known for his work on art history and criticism. Another figure of significance is Graham Norton, a popular Irish television presenter and comedian known for hosting his own talk show.

The name Norton has also been used in popular culture. It is the brand name of a well-known antivirus software that helps protect computers from malware and viruses. Additionally, Norton can be found as a toponym in different places around the world, serving as the name of towns, villages, and even universities.

In conclusion, the name Norton is an English surname with a rich history, originating from the Old English personal name 'Northun'. It has various notable individuals associated with it and has been used in different contexts, ranging from software to geographic locations.