Swain

The name Swain is of English origin and means "servant" or "retinue". It was originally an occupational surname given to someone who served in the household of a wealthy landowner or nobleman. The name is derived from the Middle English word "swaine", which itself comes from the Old English word "swēn". The name Swain has been used as a given name since the 19th century, but it was more commonly used as a surname in previous centuries. Some famous people with the surname Swain include the American poet and writer James Thomas Swain and the British actor and comedian Harry Swain. In literature, the name Swain appears most notably in the works of Shakespeare. In "The Two Gentlemen of Verona", one of the characters is named Launce Swain, who serves as a comic servant to his master, Proteus. Overall, the name Swain has a long history and interesting origins, but it remains relatively uncommon today as both a given name and a surname.