Parkhurst

The surname Parkhurst is of Old English origin, derived from the elements 'pearroc' meaning 'park' or 'enclosure' and 'hyrst' meaning 'wooded hill' or 'clearing'. It was originally a topographical surname given to someone who lived near a park or a wooded clearing within a park. Over time, like many surnames, it became a given name, though it remains much more common as a surname.

The use of Parkhurst as a given name is relatively rare and often follows the trend of using surnames as first names, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its usage as a first name tends to be more prevalent in the United States, often as a way to honor a family surname or to give a child a distinctive, traditional-sounding name.