benton

Benton is a name of English origin that is used both as a surname and as a placename. As a surname, Benton appears in historical records and has been borne by individuals across politics, science, and the arts. As a placename, Benton has been adopted for several towns and communities in English-speaking countries, most notably in the United States.

In the United States, towns named Benton exist in multiple states, including Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Oregon, and Pennsylvania, among others. These communities vary in size and character but are typically small to mid-sized municipalities. The name is often encountered in geographic descriptors, and it frequently appears in genealogical and local historical contexts as a place associated with families or events bearing the Benton name.

Beyond towns, Benton can appear in references to individuals or institutions connected to the surname. In common usage, the term Benton may refer to a locality, a surname, or historical references, depending on the context. Clarifying details such as state, county, or the professional field involved are usually necessary to identify the intended reference. Overall, Benton functions as a versatile toponym and surname with widespread but non-unique applications.