Brighton

This name is composed of two Old English and Saxon elements: “beorht” (dazzling; luminous, lucent, bright, radiant) plus “tūn” (settlement, village, town). In turn the name means “radiant town”. Another etymology is from the Old English Beorhthelmes tūn (Beorhthelm’s farmstead). This name has evolved through Bristelmestune (1086), Brichtelmeston (1198), Brighthelmeston (1493) and Brighthelmston (1816). Brighton came into common use in the early 19th century. It is still linked to a Germanic name, which in this case, is “Beorhthelm,” composed of two Old High German and Old Saxon elements: “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one) plus “*helmaz” (helmet, protection). In turn, the name means “one who brings radiant protection.” Brihthelm or Beorhthelm († 957/959) was a medieval Bishop of London. Brihthelm was consecrated between 951 and 953, and he died between 957 and 959.