The surname "Barrington" is of English origin. It is a locational surname that can be traced back to the village of Great Barrington in Gloucestershire, England. The name is derived from the Old English words "bere" meaning "barley" and "tun" meaning "settlement" or "enclosure," indicating that the original settlement was known for its barley fields. Over time, individuals who lived in or near Great Barrington adopted the surname as a way to identify their connection to the place. As with many surnames, variations and different spellings of Barrington have emerged over the years.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Barrington
The meaning and origin of the last name Barrington
The surname Barrington is of English origin and is derived from the place name Barrington, which has several possible meanings. One theory states that it comes from the Old English words "beorn," meaning "warrior," and "tun," meaning "settlement," suggesting that it was a name given to someone who lived in or near a warrior's settlement. Another possibility is that it comes from the Old English word "beran," meaning "to bear or carry," and "tun," suggesting that it may have been a name given to someone who worked as a carrier or transporter. Lastly, Barrington could also be derived from a combination of the Old English words "beornan," meaning "to burn," and "tun," signifying a place associated with burning, possibly referring to a clearing or burned area. Variations of the surname include Barenton, Barringtone, and Berington. Today, Barrington is a prominent surname found among English-speaking populations around the world.
Geographical distribution of the last name Barrington
The last name Barrington is predominantly found in the United Kingdom and the United States. In the UK, it has a notable presence in the county of Essex, particularly in the town of Barrington. The name originates from this area, potentially deriving from the Old English words "bere," meaning barley, and "tun," meaning town. Beyond Essex, Barrington can be found dispersed throughout various parts of England and Scotland.
In the United States, the name Barrington is most concentrated in the East Coast, particularly in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. It is also present in smaller numbers across the rest of the country. Commonly believed to have been brought to the US during colonial times, the name could have Irish or English roots, reflecting the diverse immigration patterns of the past. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Barrington suggests a predominantly English and Scottish heritage, with concentrations in specific regions of the UK and the US.
Variants and spellings of the last name Barrington
Barrington, a surname of English origin, has a few variations and possible spellings. One variant of this surname is Barington, where the double 'r' is replaced with a single 'r.' Other potential variations include Barrinton, Barinton, and Bavvington, where the 'n' in Barrington is substituted with double 'n' or 'v.' Additionally, there might be alternative spellings such as Berrington or Baringtoun, where the vowel sounds are modified slightly. Occasionally, the second 'r' can be dropped, resulting in the name Barringon. However, it is important to note that these variations and spellings may not be as common as the standard spelling of Barrington. As with many surnames, variations can arise due to regional accents, migration, or personal preference, resulting in a range of ways this particular surname can be spelled or pronounced.
Famous people with the last name Barrington
One notable figure with the last name Barrington is Daines Barrington (1727-1800), an English lawyer and naturalist. He is remembered for his contributions to various fields, including ornithology and botany. Barrington was a Fellow of the Royal Society and served as the Society's Secretary for 26 years. His most significant work, 'Experiments and Observations on the Singing of Birds' (1773), established his reputation in the field of avian study. He also conducted research on plant physiology and introduced the concept of photosynthesis in plants. Another well-known Barrington is Keith Barrington, a distinguished neonatologist and professor based in Canada. Dr. Barrington is recognized worldwide for his groundbreaking research on neonatal intensive care and his influential work in the field of bioethics. He has made significant contributions to improving the outcomes of prematurely born infants and is widely respected for his expertise and dedication to the field.
Genealogical research on the last name Barrington
The surname Barrington is of English origin and has a rich history dating back to medieval times. The name is locational and derives from the town of Barrington in Somerset, England. The earliest recorded instance of this surname can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where one William de Barrington is mentioned as a landowner in Somerset. Over the centuries, the Barrington family spread across different parts of England, establishing themselves in various counties such as Essex, Oxfordshire, and Kent. Prominent figures in the family include Sir William Barrington, a prominent lawyer and politician during the 16th century, and Samuel Barrington, a renowned British naval officer during the 18th century. The Barrington name has continued to flourish, with descendants of the original family name found in different parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
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