Swarthout

Swarthout is a surname of Dutch origin. It is a relatively uncommon name.

Origin and Meaning:

The name is derived from the Dutch word "zwart" meaning "black" or "dark," and "hout" meaning "wood" or "forest." Therefore, the surname likely originated as a descriptive name for someone who lived near a dark wood or forest, or possibly from a place name incorporating these elements.

Distribution:

While originating in the Netherlands, the Swarthout surname is now found primarily in the United States, likely due to historical migration patterns. The highest concentrations of individuals with this surname are generally found in regions with a history of Dutch settlement, such as New York and Michigan.

Notable People:

• Gladys Swarthout (1900-1969): An American opera singer.

Variations:

Spelling variations of the name are not common, but some instances of slight alterations may exist due to phonetic transcription or regional dialects.