Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Colton”

Origin and Historical Background

The name Colton has its roots in Old English, specifically from the elements “col” meaning “coal” and “tun” meaning “settlement” or “town.” Historically, this name likely referred to someone living in or near a coal-mining town or settlement. The name carries connotations of ruggedness and hard work, befitting of its association with coal.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

The meaning “Coal Settler” evokes imagery of the industrious and resilient communities built around coal mining. The name symbolizes strength, hard work, and a connection to the earth. In a broader cultural context, Colton could be seen as a name representing perseverance and resilience, qualities that are often admired and aspired to.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Colton

1. Walter Colton

• Historical Era: 19th Century
• Key Contributions: Walter Colton was a notable American author, clergyman, and navy chaplain. He is well remembered for his comprehensive diaries that provide a clear glimpse into early American naval life and California history.
• Cultural Impact: His works have contributed significantly to American historical literature and have provided valuable insights for historians studying the era of American expansion.

2. Colton Harris-Moore

• Historical Era: 21st Century
• Key Contributions: While infamous, Colton Harris-Moore, also known as the “Barefoot Bandit,” gained significant media attention for his exploits involving a series of thefts and high-profile police chases in the late 2000s.
• Cultural Impact: His story has been widely publicized and has sparked discussions about crime, media influence, and the romanticism of outlaw figures in modern culture.

Usage Over Time

Colton has steadily risen in popularity in the United States, particularly over the last few decades. It saw a significant increase in the 1990s and has remained a popular choice among parents. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Colton gained notable popularity in the early 2000s and has continued to be a commonly chosen name in the 2010s.

Pronunciation Guide

The name Colton is pronounced as KOHL-tən. The emphasis is on the first syllable, “KOHL,” with a softer, almost silent, ending on “tən.”

Biblical Context

The name Colton does not have a direct biblical reference, as it is of Old English origin. However, names with similar phonetic patterns or meanings are often explored in cultural contexts to establish connectedness to virtues and characteristics admired in biblical narratives, such as hard work and resilience.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Colton resonates with the number 5, which is associated with freedom, adaptability, and dynamic energy.

Variations

Variations of the name Colton include Kolton and Kolten. These variations maintain the core sound and meaning but offer a slight twist in phonetic or spelling preference.

Cultural Variants

While Colton is primarily used in English-speaking countries, its attributes make it appealing in other cultures that celebrate strong and industrious names.

Popularity

According to the Social Security Administration (ssa.gov), Colton witnessed a significant rise in popularity during the 2000s and 2010s. It has frequently appeared in the top baby names lists over these decades, reflecting its growing acceptance and preference among new parents.

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By compiling this comprehensive guide on the name Colton, prospective parents can gain a well-rounded understanding of its origins, meanings, cultural significance, and historical context, aiding them in making an informed decision for their child’s name.