Surname Hilton - Meaning and Origin

Tracing the Hilton Lineage Through iGENEA DNA Test: An Insight Into My Viking Heritage

Taking a deep dive into your heritage through DNA tests can be quite a transformative experience. Through the in-depth and accurate DNA test of iGENEA, I discovered the rich and intricate history associated with my surname, Hilton. From its Anglo-Saxon origins to a surprising connection with Scandinavian Viking heritage, it has been an enlightening exploration.

T. Hilton

Hilton: What does the surname Hilton mean?

The surname Hilton is of Old English origin and is derived from both geographical and habitational roots. It derives from the Old English words "hyll", meaning 'hill', and "tun", meaning 'settlement' or 'farm'. Therefore, the surname can be interpreted as 'settlement on the hill' or 'farm on the hill'. This surname was likely given to those who resided or worked in such locations. Throughout the centuries, several variations of the spelling have developed, including Hylton, Hilten, Hillton and others. Today, the most famous bearers of the Hilton surname are those from the Hilton family of hoteliers, such as Conrad Hilton, the founder of Hilton Hotels, and his descendants.

Hilton: Where does the name Hilton come from?

The surname Hilton originated from England and is of Anglo-Saxon descent. It is a geographical or locational surname derived from several places named Hilton, found in different areas such as Durham, Stafford, and Derby. The primary translation of Hilton is “hill settlement” or “hill town,” from the Old English elements "hyll," meaning "hill," and "tun," meaning "settlement."

Having been carried to many English colonies at an early date, the surname Hilton can be found in various countries around the globe today. Nevertheless, it is most common in the United States, primarily due to the prominence of the Hilton family famous for their hotel empire. These Hiltons started with Conrad Hilton, the American hotel tycoon, and his descendants - one of the most famous being socialite Paris Hilton. Despite its dispersal worldwide, the surname Hilton still has a heavy presence in England, the country of its origin. Other regions with noticeable populations of individuals with the Hilton surname include Australia, Canada, and South Africa.

Variations of the surname Hilton

The surname Hilton is of English origins and there are several variants and spellings for this name. Some of them include Hylton, Hilten, Hillton, Hilleton, and Hulton. The surname Hilton derives originally from the barony of Hilton in North East England. The original spelling was Hyltun, which then adapted into various forms over time. Places named Hilton can be found all over England, hence, Hilton can also be a geographic surname and different geographic surnames may have independent origins.

The name has also branched into distinct surnames like Ellton or Elton which may share common roots with Hilton. In some cases, it might be Anglicized from the German Hügel, which means "hill". However, this is less common. The surname Hilton is famously associated with the Hilton family of hotel magnates, including Conrad Hilton who founded Hilton Hotels. Variations of the surname also extend to diminutives like Hilly, Hiller, or Hillyer.

Each variation which has taken on its own life can be considered a distinct surname. Therefore, some of these variations may share some historical connection with the surname Hilton, but can also deviate significantly over time due to geographical and social influences.

Famous people with the name Hilton

• Paris Hilton: American television personality, model, actress, singer, author, and entrepreneur.
• Nicky Hilton: American fashion designer, socialite, and model.
• Barron Hilton: American socialite and the 18th chairman of the Hilton Hotels Corporation.
• Conrad Hilton– American hotelier and founder of Hilton Hotels.
• Kim Richards: American actress, socialite, and television personality.
• Rick Hilton: American real estate investor and chairman of the Hilton and Hyland real estate brokerage.
• Kathy Hilton: American actress, fashion designer, and philanthropist.
• William Barron Hilton: American industrialist.
• Eric Hilton: American musician, DJ, and businessman.
• Zeta-Jones James: British actress and singer.
• Kylie Jenner: American media personality, model, and entrepreneur.
• Kathy Ireland: American fashion model, entrepreneur, and actress.
• Dylan Lauren: American fashion designer, entrepreneur, and professional food stylist.
• Page Hannah: American actress, producer, and fashion designer.
• Marie Hilton: French singer and songwriter.

Other surnames

Hiltons