Afton is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Abhainn," which means "river." The name Afton is often associated with the beautiful and scenic Afton Water, a river that flows through southern Scotland.
The name Afton has a rich history and cultural significance in Scotland. It was popularized by the poet Robert Burns, who wrote a poem titled "Afton Water" in honor of his homeland's natural beauty. The poem celebrates the sights and sounds of the Afton Water river, and it is considered one of Burns' most famous works.
In addition to its Scottish roots, the name Afton has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and Canada. While it may not be as common as some other names, those who bear the name Afton often appreciate its unique sound and its connection to Scotland's rich history and culture.
Today, the name Afton is still chosen by parents for their children, drawn to its distinctive sound and its association with natural beauty and Scottish heritage. Whether you are of Scottish descent or simply appreciate the name's unique qualities, choosing Afton as a given name is a meaningful and memorable decision.
The name Afton experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the past century. After peaking at around 20 births per year between 1915 and 1921, it saw a steady decline until the 1940s, with fewer than 10 births annually for most years from 1930 to 1942. The name remained relatively uncommon throughout much of the mid-20th century, with only a handful of births each year between 1950 and 1986. However, since the late 1980s, Afton has seen renewed popularity, particularly in recent years, with over 20 births recorded annually from 2007 to 2013, and again from 2019 to 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 830 births named Afton since 1910.