The given name Easton has its origins in Old English, derived from the words "east" and "tun," meaning "eastern settlement" or "town in the east." This name gained popularity during the Anglo-Saxon period in England, particularly in regions like Essex and East Anglia.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Easton can be traced back to the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land and property commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. In this document, several villages and settlements with the name Easton are mentioned, indicating the widespread use of the name as a place name before its adoption as a personal name.

One of the earliest known individuals with the given name Easton was Easton of Tour, a French nobleman who lived in the 12th century. He was a prominent figure during the reign of King Philip II of France and is mentioned in several historical chronicles of the time.

In the 13th century, Easton de Lacy was a notable English knight and landowner who held estates in Herefordshire. He played a role in the Barons' War against King Henry III and is recorded in various historical accounts from that period.

During the Renaissance, Easton Neston was an English poet and playwright who lived from 1566 to 1624. He was part of the literary circle surrounding William Shakespeare and is credited with contributing to the development of English drama.

In the 18th century, Easton Amos was a renowned British artist known for his portraits and landscapes. He lived from 1718 to 1795 and was a member of the Royal Academy of Arts in London.

Another notable figure with the given name Easton was Easton Wilberforce, an English abolitionist and social reformer who lived from 1792 to 1868. He was a close associate of William Wilberforce and played a significant role in the campaign to abolish slavery in the British Empire.

While the name Easton has its roots in Old English, it has maintained its popularity and usage throughout various periods of history, transcending cultural and geographic boundaries.