Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Thorn

      Origin 
      German

      Meaning 
      Spike on a Plant

      Variations 
      Thorne, Thornton, Arathorn

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Thorn has its origins in the German language and carries the meaning of Spike on a Plant. This name finds its roots in the medieval period when names began to develop as a means of identification. In those times, names were often derived from occupations, physical attributes, or geographical locations. The name Thorn would have likely been given to individuals who were either associated with or worked with plants bearing thorns, such as farmers, gardeners, or those who harvested or cultivated fruits and vegetables.

      Throughout history, the name Thorn has appeared in various forms and spellings across different regions. It has been found in medieval records with spellings like Thorne, Thoren, or Thornes. Examples of individuals bearing this name can be found in historical documents, where they are often mentioned in relation to their occupation or land ownership. Over time, as names became more standardized, the spelling of Thorn evolved, and it is now commonly seen in modern-day usage.

      In present times, the name Thorn continues to be used as a name in many English-speaking countries. It can also be found as a given name, although less frequently. In both cases, the name retains its original meaning, symbolizing the presence of strength and protection amidst adversity. Its German origins give it a sense of authenticity and history, making it a distinctive choice for those seeking a name evoking the qualities of resilience and determination.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Thorn.
      Anderson

      is the most common surname for Thorn.

      Martha

      is the most common spouse name for Thorn.

      Ida

      is the most common child name for Thorn.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1860 is when there were the most people born with the first name Thorn.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.