All about the name

Paton

Male

« Paton is a rare, Scottish-origin given name derived from Paterson, meaning "son of Patrick". »

#16893 over 10 years

Meaning, origin, history

Paton is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname Paterson, which itself comes from the Gaelic words "Pate" meaning "head," and "-son," meaning "son of." Therefore, Paton translates to "son of Patrick." The name Paterson has been traced back to the 13th century in Scotland, where it was first recorded as a family name. It is believed that the name originated from one of the numerous families who adopted their name from the area they inhabited or from their father's given name. Over time, Paton has evolved from being primarily a surname to also being used as a given name. Today, Paton is still relatively rare but can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in Scotland and other English-speaking countries. Despite its rarity, Paton carries with it a rich history and strong Scottish heritage. It is a unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child. Additionally, as Paton means "son of Patrick," it can be seen as a nod to the popular Irish name Patrick, making it appealing to those with Irish ancestry or who appreciate Irish culture. In terms of its usage, Paton has been used more frequently as a boy's name, but it is also sometimes given to girls. Ultimately, the choice of whether to use Paton as a boy's or girl's name may depend on personal preference and family tradition. Overall, Paton is an interesting and unique name with a rich history and meaningful origin. Its Scottish heritage and distinctive sound make it a compelling choice for parents looking for something different from the usual popular names.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Paton since 1880

Total births
87
Total since 1880
Peak year
2005
8 births
in 2017
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
vs previous 5 years