A Name Steeped in History
Charlton is a surname-turned-given-name with deep historical ties to England. It originated as a place name, derived from the Old English elements ‘cyr’ meaning ‘church’ and ‘tun’ meaning ‘village or enclosure.’ Thus, Charlton originally referred to a village near a church.
How to Say It
IPA: /ˈtʃɑːrltən/
Phonetic: CHARL-ton
Gender Identity
male
Nicknames and Variations
- Charlie
- Charl
- Ton
- Charltonie
Famous Charltons
- Charlton Heston — American actor and NRA president.
- Charlton Westcott — British film and television producer.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Because of its place name origins, Charlton carries a sense of tradition and history. It’s often associated with England and British heritage. The surname’s evolution into a first name reflects broader trends in adopting place names as given names throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
Where is Charlton Used?
Charlton is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, particularly the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. While not extremely common, it has maintained a steady presence as a given name.
Names with Similar Origins
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charlton a biblical name?
No, Charlton is not directly mentioned in the Bible. Its origin lies in English place names.
What does Charlton mean?
Charlton means ‘church village’ or ‘village near the church’, derived from Old English elements.