US Popularity Rank: 28541

Origin: Scottish

Meaning: Thorn town; Blackthorn, whitethorn, bush

Thornton is a boy's name of English, Scottish, and Irish origin. It's related to an English surname meaning "thorn town" and the Irish surnames Ó Droighneáin, Mac Sceacháin, and Ó Toráin, meaning "blackthorn," "whitethorn," and "bush." Though thorns bring a touch of danger to mind, their primary purpose is to defend flowers such as roses, suggesting that your little one will be a protector of life's beauty. Thornton's most famous forebearer is the 3-time Pulitzer prize-winning author, Thornton Wilder, giving this name a creative edge to inspire your little artist.