The name Quinton is derived from the French surname Quentin, which originated from the Roman name Quintinus. Quintinus is a Latin name derived from the word "quintus," meaning "fifth." This suggests that the name was initially given to a fifth-born son in ancient Roman times.

The name Quentin gained popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in France and England. It is believed that the French form of the name, Quinton, emerged as a variant spelling during this period. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Quinton dates back to the 13th century in England.

In medieval literature, the name Quinton is associated with a legendary figure known as St. Quinton or St. Quentin. According to Christian tradition, St. Quinton was a Roman Christian martyr who was executed during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian in the early 4th century. His name and story were widely celebrated in Europe, contributing to the name's popularity.

Throughout history, notable individuals have borne the name Quinton. One of the earliest recorded figures was Quinton de Bruges (c. 1355-1425), a Flemish composer and music theorist who lived during the Renaissance. In the 16th century, Quinton Matsys (1466-1530) was a renowned Flemish painter and sculptor known for his remarkable transition from blacksmith to artist.

In more recent times, Quinton Hogg (1907-2001) was a British politician and educator who served as a Member of Parliament and founded several prestigious schools in England. Quinton Dewhurst (1926-2018) was an English actor best known for his roles in films such as "The Lion in Winter" and "The Madwoman of Chaillot."

Another notable figure was Quinton Nolan (1932-2005), an American baseball player who played for the Milwaukee Braves and the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1950s and 1960s. In the literary world, Quinton Duval (1954-2016) was an American writer and poet who published several collections of poetry and received numerous accolades for his work.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who have borne the name Quinton, demonstrating its enduring presence across various cultures and disciplines.