The name Weston derives from Old English and originates from the words "west" and "tun," meaning a settlement or town located in the western part of a region. It was initially used as a surname to identify people living in western towns or villages.

The earliest recorded use of Weston as a first name dates back to the late 12th century in England. One of the earliest known individuals with this name was Weston Brut, a 13th-century English chronicler who authored a historical work called the "Weston Chronicle."

In the Middle Ages, Weston was occasionally used as a first name, particularly among the English nobility and gentry. One notable bearer of this name was Weston Browne (1536-1612), an English Catholic martyr who was executed during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I for his religious beliefs.

During the Renaissance period, the name Weston gained popularity among the upper classes in England. A famous example from this time is Weston Burt (1604-1679), an English theologian and author who served as a chaplain to King Charles I.

In the 18th century, the name Weston became more widely used across various social classes in England and other parts of the British Isles. Weston Hugh Auden (1707-1762) was an English clergyman and author who gained recognition for his theological works.

As the British Empire expanded, the name Weston also spread to other parts of the world. Weston Arthur Goodspeed (1834-1923) was a Canadian-American scholar and theologian who made significant contributions to biblical studies and religious education.

Throughout history, the name Weston has been associated with individuals from various fields, including literature, religion, academia, and the arts. Some other notable figures with this first name include Weston Edward Muir (1870-1938), an American landscape painter known for his depictions of the American West, and Weston Sampson (1887-1952), a Canadian architect and urban planner who designed several landmark buildings in Toronto.