Last Name Quinton

The last name "Quinton" is of English origin. It is derived from the given name "Quentin," which in turn is derived from the Latin name "Quintinus." The Latin name "Quintinus" means "the fifth," suggesting that those who bore the name "Quinton" were historically associated with being the fifth son in a family. Over time, the surname "Quinton" has evolved and been passed down through generations, becoming a distinct family name.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Quinton

The meaning and origin of the last name Quinton

The surname Quinton is of English origin and has multiple possible meanings. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Cwenta" or "Cwint", which were forms of the name Quintus, meaning "fifth" in Latin. It could also have originated from the place name Quinton, derived from the Old English words "cwen", meaning "queen", and "tun", meaning "enclosure" or "settlement". In this context, Quinton could have been a locational surname referring to someone who resided in a settlement associated with queens. Another possibility is that Quinton derived from the French name "Quintin", a shorter form of "Quintinus", meaning "fifth" in Latin. The surname Quinton is relatively common in England, especially in the Midlands and the Worcestershire area. Over time, variations of the surname may have emerged, such as Quentin or Quinten.

Geographical distribution of the last name Quinton

The last name Quinton is fairly widespread, although its geographical distribution is not as concentrated as some other surnames. It can be found in various parts of the world, with notable concentrations found in English-speaking countries. In the United Kingdom, the name Quinton is most commonly associated with areas such as Birmingham, West Midlands, and Worcestershire. In the United States, the name is spread across different states, including California, Texas, Illinois, and New York. Other countries with significant populations carrying the surname include Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Additionally, Quinton can also be found in parts of Europe, particularly France and Belgium. Overall, while the geographical distribution of the last name Quinton is not limited to one specific region, it is most prevalent in English-speaking countries and areas influenced by English migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Quinton

The last name Quinton has a few variations and spellings that have emerged over time. One common variation is Quentin, where the "o" is replaced with an "e". Another variation is Quinten, where the last two letters are switched. Additionally, Quintin is another spelling variation, where the "o" is replaced with an "i". Furthermore, Quenton is another alternative spelling, where the last three letters are rearranged. These variations may have originated from different regions or spelling preferences of individuals with the surname. While Quinton remains the most common and widely recognized spelling, these variations and spellings highlight the flexibility and adaptability of surnames throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Quinton

One famous individual with the last name Quinton is Judi Quinton, a renowned British actress. She has graced both stage and screen with her talents, captivating audiences with her mesmerizing performances. Judi Quinton has received critical acclaim for her diverse roles, from Shakespearean classics to modern dramas, earning her numerous accolades and a place among the finest actors of her generation. Her ability to portray complex emotions and convincingly transport viewers into the world of her characters has solidified her reputation as a true thespian. Another notable figure bearing the last name Quinton is Richard Quinton, an esteemed English historian. Through his comprehensive research and insightful analysis, Richard Quinton has contributed significantly to historical scholarship, particularly in the areas of medieval and Renaissance studies. His published works have served as authoritative sources, shedding light on the intricacies of past eras and enriching our understanding of history.

Genealogical research on the last name Quinton

The genealogical research on the last name Quentin shows a rich history dating back several centuries. The surname Quentin is of French origin and is derived from the Latin personal name Quintinus, meaning "the fifth-born." The name was popularized by Saint Quentin, a 3rd-century Christian martyr from Gaul. From the 15th century onwards, individuals bearing the name Quentin dispersed throughout Europe, particularly in France, England, and Scotland. In England, the name took on various spelling variations, including Quintin, Quinton, and Quainton. The Quentins primarily settled in the counties of Cornwall, Gloucestershire, and the West Midlands. Immigration in more recent times has led to the spread of the Quentin name to North America, Australia, and other parts of the world. Today, the Quentin name continues to thrive, with descendants proudly carrying on their ancestral heritage and diverse contributions to society.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Quinton"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends