Broughton (name)

Broughton is a surname of English origin, and less commonly, a given name. The surname is toponymic, derived from various places named Broughton in England. These place names typically originate from Old English, combining the elements "broc" meaning brook or stream, and "tun" meaning settlement or enclosure. Therefore, Broughton generally signifies a settlement by a brook.

The surname is found throughout England, with concentrations in areas where multiple villages and hamlets share the name. Over time, the name has spread to other parts of the English-speaking world through migration and emigration.

As a given name, Broughton is considerably rarer and is typically used as a masculine name, often seen as sophisticated or upper-class, particularly in the United Kingdom. The usage of Broughton as a first name is often influenced by family connections to the surname or a desire to evoke a sense of heritage.

Notable people with the surname Broughton include individuals in various fields, such as politics, sports, and the arts.