Surname Hampton - Meaning and Origin

Delving into the Historical Odyssey of the Hampton Surname through iGENEA DNA Test

Unveiling my ancestral roots through the iGENEA DNA test, I plunged into the historical and cultural tapestry associated with my surname, Hampton. The test provided insights into the historical events that shaped the lineage of the Hamptons, from the Norman Conquest to the Wars of the Roses. The Hampton saga, from a quaint English location to a worldwide presence, mirrors humanity's relentless ability to expand horizons.

P. Hampton

Hampton: What does the surname Hampton mean?

The surname Hampton is of English origin and is a topographic name derived from the Old English words "hamm" meaning an enclosure or flat low-lying land, and "tun", meaning farmstead, estate, or manor. Therefore, it essentially means 'settlement in the bend of a river.' It is a locational surname, often originated by a geographic entity or a place used as an identifying name by those who lived there. There are numerous places named Hampton across England, including in Buckinghamshire, Herefordshire, Middlesex, Shropshire, and Worcestershire. This surname first made its appearance on record in the late 12th century. Nowadays, there are many variations of the surname including Hampden, Hamptonne, and more. Notable people with the surname Hampton include the American jazz musician Lionel Hampton and the American actor James Hampton.

Hampton: Where does the name Hampton come from?

The surname Hampton is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from Old English terms "hamm" meaning "water meadow" or "land in the bend of a river," and "tun" meaning "farmstead," or "settlement". Thus, it's typically considered a geographical or locational surname related to a person living or working near such a location. The name is often associated with one of the various places in England called Hampton, such as in Buckinghamshire, Middlesex, London, and many others.

Today, the surname Hampton is found commonly in English-speaking countries, particularly the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia. According to Forebears, a site that details surname distribution, the United States has the highest number of people with the Hampton surname. Within the U.S., it is most concentrated in the Southern states, reflecting the influence of British colonists who brought the name to America. England also has a significant concentration of individuals with the last name, aligned with its origins. Other regions with substantial numbers of people named Hampton include South Africa and New Zealand.

Variations of the surname Hampton

The surname Hampton has primarily English roots, taking its origin from multiple locations named Hampton across Great Britain. Variations and spellings of this surname often differ based on the geographical region and evolution of language over time. Some alternate spellings and variants of the name Hampton could include Haughton, Hopton, Hapton, Hampston, Hamton, Hamptone, and Hempston.

The surname may also be influenced by other factors like migration, leading to slight changes in spelling or pronunciation. For example, in Germany, the surname appears as Hampel or Hampf, and in France as Champion.

The surnames associated with Hampton as derivatives or having the same roots include Hampson and Hempson, primarily meaning "son of Hamp". This is common in surnames derived from patronymic naming traditions.

It's important to note that the surname Hampton may not always guarantee a blood relation between people carrying the same surname, it could often be indicative of being from the same geographical location named 'Hampton'.

Famous people with the name Hampton

• Lionel Hampton: An American jazz vibraphonist, pianist, percussionist, bandleader, and actor.
• Fred Hampton: An African-American activist and revolutionary socialist who was an influential member of the Black Panther Party.
• Scott Hampton: An American comic book artist, known for 'Batman: Night Cries'.
• Don Hampton: An American jazz pianist and composer.
• Slide Hampton: An acclaimed jazz trombonist, composer, and arranger.
• Wade Hampton III: A Confederate cavalry leader during the American Civil War and later the Governor of South Carolina.
• James Hampton: An American actor known for his roles in 'Gone in 60 Seconds' and 'The China Syndrome'.
• Holly Hampton: An influential interior designer.
• Dan Hampton: A retired professional American football defensive tackle who played for the Chicago Bears.
• Victor Hampton: A former American football cornerback.
• Kim Hampton: A former professional basketball player and singer.
• Colleen Hampton: An Australian actress.
• Rebecca Hampton: A French actress, known for 'Plus belle la vie'.
• Rosalynn Hampton: An American opera singer.
• Christopher Hampton: An acclaimed British playwright, screenwriter, and film director.
• Lara Downes: Known as Lara Downes-Hampton, is an American concert pianist and music journalist.

Other surnames

Hamptonne