Burton is an English given name derived from a surname of habitational origin. The surname originates from various places in England named Burton, which come from the Old English words burh (fortress) and tūn (enclosure, settlement), meaning "fortified town." As a first name, Burton has been in use since the 19th century, often in honor of prominent families or individuals bearing the surname.Notable BearersOne of the most famous bearers of the surname is Sir Richard Francis Burton (1821–1890), a British explorer, geographer, and scholar who traveled extensively in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. He was known for his explorations of the African Great Lakes and his translation of One Thousand and One Nights. Other notable individuals with the surname include the American saxophonist Abraham Burton, Australian Victoria Cross recipient Alexander Burton, and American academic Alfred Edgar Burton.As a first name, Burton has been borne by figures such as American actor Burton Croninger and British politician Burton Swanson.VariantsA common short form or diminutive is Burt, which has also been used as an independent given name. The name remains primarily English in origin and usage.Key FactsMeaning: Fortified townOrigin: English habitational surnameType: Masculine given nameUsage Regions: English-speaking countries