The name Braxton is an English surname that has been used as a given name since the late 20th century. It is derived from the Old English words "bræc" meaning "newly cultivated land" and "tun" meaning "enclosure" or "settlement." The name likely originated as a locational surname, referring to someone who lived near or owned land that had been recently cleared for cultivation.

The earliest recorded use of the surname Braxton dates back to the 13th century in England. One of the earliest recorded individuals with the surname Braxton was Richard de Brakkeston, who was mentioned in the Hundred Rolls of Oxfordshire in 1273. The name was concentrated in various counties in England, including Yorkshire, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire.

While the name Braxton has been used as a surname for centuries, its use as a given name is relatively modern. One of the earliest known individuals with the first name Braxton was Braxton Bragg, a Confederate general during the American Civil War (1817-1876). He was born in Warrenton, North Carolina, and his first name was likely a variant of his family's surname.

Another notable individual with the first name Braxton was Braxton B. Comer, who served as the 33rd Governor of Alabama from 1907 to 1911. He was born in 1848 in Barbour County, Alabama, and his first name was likely also derived from his family's surname.

In the 20th century, the name Braxton gained popularity as a given name, particularly in the United States. This trend was likely influenced by the popularity of the surname and its association with historical figures like Braxton Bragg and Braxton B. Comer.

Other notable individuals with the first name Braxton include:

1. Braxton Miller, an American football player born in 1992, who played for the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Philadelphia Eagles.
2. Braxton Hicks, an obstetrician from England (1823-1897), known for describing the Braxton Hicks contractions during pregnancy.
3. Braxton Baker, an American actor and writer born in 1979, best known for his role in the TV series Superstore.
4. Braxton Garrett, an American professional baseball pitcher born in 1997, currently playing for the Miami Marlins.
5. Braxton Winston, an American actor and comedian born in 1987, known for his roles in TV shows like The Neighborhood and Sunnyside.

While the name Braxton has its roots in Old English and was initially used as a surname, it has gained popularity as a given name in recent decades, particularly in the United States. Its usage reflects the influence of historical figures and the trend of using surnames as first names.