NomOrigine Background

Origin and meaning of the name Fulton

What is the origin of the name Fulton?

The origin of the first name "Fulton" can be traced back to English and Scottish origins. It is a surname turned into a first name. The name "Fulton" is derived from the Old English word "fugol", meaning "bird," and the suffix "-tūn," meaning "settlement" or "town." In this context, the name initially referred to a settlement or town where birds were abundant. Over time, "Fulton" became a common surname in English and Scottish-speaking regions. As a first name, "Fulton" is relatively rare but continues to be used today in various English-speaking countries.

Learn more about the origin of the name Fulton

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Fulton

The name Fulton is of English origin and has a meaning that is rooted in occupational history. Derived from the Old English "fugol," meaning bird, and "tun," meaning settlement or enclosure, Fulton signifies a person who lived near or was associated with a settlement of birds. This etymology suggests that individuals with the name Fulton may have had a connection with nature, particularly birds, in their ancestral occupations. As surnames began to transition into first names, the usage of Fulton became more common. The name gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, potentially inspired by notable figures like Robert Fulton, an influential American engineer and inventor known for developing commercial steamboat technology. The name Fulton carries a sense of connection to nature and a hint of industriousness, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a unique yet classic name for their child.

Character traits associated with the name Fulton

Fulton is a name that carries various character traits with it. Individuals with the name Fulton tend to be intelligent and analytical, possessing a strong desire to understand the world around them. They have a natural curiosity and are always seeking knowledge. They are also known for their excellent problem-solving skills, being able to think quickly and logically in difficult situations. Fulton is often seen as a determined and hardworking individual who is dedicated to their goals. They have a strong sense of responsibility and a drive to achieve success. With their natural leadership abilities, they excel in positions of power, inspiring and motivating others to strive for greatness. Furthermore, Fulton is often viewed as honest and reliable, earning the trust and respect of those around them. Overall, Fulton is an exceptional name associated with intelligence, determination, and leadership qualities.

Popularity of the name Fulton

The name Fulton has had a relatively moderate level of popularity over the years. It originated from Old English origins and is derived from a combination of words meaning "bird" and "hill". The name first appeared in the United States in the late 19th century and experienced its peak popularity in the early 1900s. It was never among the most popular names, but rather maintained a steady presence in naming trends. Fulton's popularity has fluctuated somewhat, with periods of increased usage followed by periods of decline. In recent years, the name has become less commonly used, with many parents opting for more modern or unique names for their children. However, Fulton remains a classic and timeless choice that exudes a sense of strength and authenticity.

Famous people with the name Fulton

One of the famous people with the first name Fulton is Fulton J. Sheen. Born as Peter John Sheen, Fulton J. Sheen was an American Roman Catholic bishop, theologian, and television personality. He gained worldwide fame for his Emmy Award-winning television series, "Life Is Worth Living," which aired from 1951 to 1957. Sheen's charismatic and engaging preaching style appealed to a wide audience and played a significant role in popularizing Catholicism in the United States during that era. Another famous individual with the first name Fulton is Fulton Oursler. He was an American journalist, playwright, and editor. Oursler is best known for his work as a writer and editor for Reader's Digest, but he also gained acclaim for his novels and plays. One of his most notable works is the novel "The Greatest Story Ever Told," a fictionalized account of Jesus' life, which became an international bestseller and was later adapted into a film. These are just a few examples of notable individuals named Fulton who have left a lasting impact in their respective fields.

Variations of the name Fulton

Fulton is a timeless and distinguished name that has several variations adding even more charm and uniqueness. One variation is Fulten, which maintains the same pronunciation but adds an alternative spelling. This version can provide a sense of individuality and sophistication while still honoring the original name's roots. Another variation is Fultin, which alters the spelling slightly and adds a softer touch. With this variation, the name retains its strong presence but may appeal to those seeking a softer and more melodic sound. Lastly, there is Fulston, a variation that gives the name a more formal and regal feel. This version may be preferred by those who desire a name that exudes elegance and refinement. Overall, these variations of the name Fulton offer a range of options to suit different preferences and create a distinct and memorable identity.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 8 June 2025

Share the origin and meaning of your name with your friends

Search the origin of a first name

Enter the first name you are looking for below:

Similar First Names

Ful chand (First name)

forenames > ful-chand

The origin of the first name Ful Chand is Indian. It is a traditional Hindu name commonly found in North India.

Ful hasan (First name)

forenames > ful-hasan

The name Ful Hasan originates from Turkish and Arabic cultures. "Ful" means "bean" in Turkish, and "Hasan" is an Arabic name meaning "good" or "handsome."

Ful mahammad (First name)

forenames > ful-mahammad

The name Ful Mahammad is of Arabic origin. It is a variation of the name Muhammad, which means "praiseworthy" in Arabic. Muhammad is a common name among Muslim communities around t...

Fulan (First name)

forenames > fulan

The name "Fulan" is of Arabic origin. It is a common placeholder name used in Arabic-speaking countries to refer to an unspecified person. It is similar to the English use of "John...

Fulare (First name)

forenames > fulare

The name "Fulare" has its origin in the Italian language. It is derived from the word "fulare," which means "scarf" in Italian.

Fulari (First name)

forenames > fulari

The origin of the first name "Fulari" is not clear or widely recognized. It does not have a well-known etymology or background in English language sources.

Fulchandrasingh (First name)

forenames > fulchandrasingh

Fulchandrasingh is an Indian name of Sanskrit origin. Fulchandra means "flower moon" and Singh is a common surname in India that means "lion."

Fuldhara (First name)

forenames > fuldhara

The origin of the first name "Fuldhara" is Sanskrit.

Fulena (First name)

forenames > fulena

The name Fulena is of Italian origin. It is a variant of the name Fulvia, which is derived from the Latin name Fulvius, meaning "yellow-haired" or "blond".

Fulenkumar (First name)

forenames > fulenkumar

The origin of the first name "Fulenkumar" is Indian.

Fulesgwri (First name)

forenames > fulesgwri

The name "Fulesgwri" does not have an origin in English. It is likely not a traditional English name and may have been created or modified in a different language or culture.

Fulham (First name)

forenames > fulham

The name Fulham is derived from Old English and means "homestead of the birds." It is also the name of a district in London, England. The name likely originated from the Old Englis...

Full bass (First name)

forenames > full-bass

The first name "Full" has English origins. It is derived from the Old English word "ful" meaning "full" or "plump."

Full chanura (First name)

forenames > full-chanura

The first name Full Chanura does not have a known origin or meaning in English.

Full circle (First name)

forenames > full-circle

Full Circle is not a traditional English first name, but rather a phrase typically used to describe completion or coming back to the starting point.