Catton

Catton is a toponym used in England for places and, less commonly, a surname. In Norfolk, Old Catton and New Catton lie to the north of the city of Norwich and are distinct civil parishes within the district. The name is closely associated with these localities and is sometimes used collectively to refer to the area surrounding Norwich.

The place-name Catton is of Old English origin. The suffix -tun denotes a farm or settlement, and the initial element may derive from a personal name such as Catta or from a descriptive term. This pattern is common in English toponyms, and related forms appear in various counties.

As a surname, Catton originated from residence in or association with a place called Catton. It has been borne by individuals in England and by descendants who migrated elsewhere, where the name can appear in genealogical and historical records.

In contemporary use, Catton remains primarily linked to the Norfolk localities, particularly Old Catton and New Catton. The name also appears in modern street names, neighborhood designations, and other references tied to the historic locality.