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Last Name Eglinton

What is the origin of the last name Eglinton?

The last name "Eglinton" is of Scottish origin. It is believed to be derived from the place name "Eaglesham" in Renfrewshire, Scotland. Eaglesham was originally known as "Eglintoun" in the medieval period, and the surname "Eglinton" is thought to have been taken by individuals who lived in or near this place. The name may also have originated from the Old English personal name "Aeglun".

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Eglinton

The meaning and origin of the last name Eglinton

The surname Eglinton is of Scottish origin, derived from the place name Eglinton in Ayrshire, Scotland. The name likely comes from the Old English words "ecg" meaning edge or sword, and "tun" meaning settlement or enclosure, indicating that the original bearer of the surname may have lived near a sharp-edged hill or had some connection to a place associated with this word. The name Eglinton has also been linked to the Gaelic word "eaglais" meaning church, suggesting that the surname may have been given to those who lived near or worked at a church. The variations of the surname include Eglington, Eglenton, and Eglintoun. Over time, the surname has spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement, with variations in spelling reflecting regional accents and dialects.

Geographical distribution of the last name Eglinton

The last name Eglinton has a relatively limited geographical distribution, with the majority of individuals bearing this surname found in the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland. Eglinton is a surname that is closely associated with the Eglinton Castle in North Ayrshire, Scotland, which was the ancestral seat of the Eglinton family. As a result, many individuals with the last name Eglinton can trace their roots back to this region. However, there are also smaller populations of individuals with the surname Eglinton in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United States, largely as a result of migration patterns and historical connections to the British Empire. Overall, while the surname Eglinton is not particularly prevalent on a global scale, it continues to be a significant and meaningful part of the cultural and historical landscape of Scotland and the United Kingdom.

Variants and spellings of the last name Eglinton

The last name Eglinton has several variations and spellings including Eglington, Eglintoun, Eglintoune, and Eglintowne. These variations may be due to different spellings over time or regional dialects. The surname Eglinton is of Scottish origin, derived from the Barony of Eglinton in North Ayrshire, Scotland. The name may also have connections to the town of Eglinton in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Families with the surname Eglinton have a long history in both Scotland and Ireland, with records dating back to the early medieval period. Today, individuals with the surname Eglinton or one of its variations can be found all over the world, with descendants of these families having emigrated to countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Famous people with the last name Eglinton

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Eglinton include Sir Thomas Eglinton, a prominent figure in Canadian history known for his contributions to the development of the Canadian railroad system. Another well-known Eglinton is Sir Hugh Eglinton, a distinguished British diplomat who served in various high-ranking positions within the government. Additionally, Lady Elizabeth Eglinton was a notable socialite and philanthropist known for her charitable work and contributions to various causes. These individuals have left a lasting impact on their respective fields and have garnered recognition for their achievements and contributions to society.

Genealogical research on the last name Eglinton

The surname Eglinton is of Scottish origin, derived from the barony of Eglinton in Ayrshire, Scotland. The earliest records of the Eglinton name date back to the 12th century, with the family holding prominent positions in society. Over the centuries, the Eglinton family spread throughout Scotland and beyond, with branches established in England and Ireland. The name is believed to have been anglicized from the Gaelic "Eaglais" meaning church, suggesting a possible religious connection in the family's history. Many notable individuals bearing the Eglinton surname have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, art, and academia. Today, those with the Eglinton surname can trace their ancestry back to this ancient Scottish lineage and take pride in their rich heritage.

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 : 11 April 2025

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