Wharton

Wharton is an English surname that evolved into a given name. It is a locational surname, meaning it was originally given to someone who came from a place called Wharton. The place name itself is derived from Old English elements: 'weard' meaning 'guard' or 'ward' (referring to a watchman or a protected place) and 'tun' meaning 'settlement' or 'enclosure'.

The use of surnames as first names became more common in English-speaking countries, particularly from the 17th century onwards, often to honor a family surname or a prominent family connection. While never extremely common as a given name, it has maintained a consistent, albeit rare, presence.