Townes

Townes is an English surname that originated as a place name. It is derived from the Old English words 'tun' meaning 'town' and 'ges' meaning 'dwellers,' referring to people who lived in or near a town.

When used as a given name, Townes is a relatively modern choice that gained popularity in the late 20th century. Its meaning connects to the idea of urban living or belonging to a community.

The name may also be associated with notable individuals like American physicist and Nobel laureate Charles Hard Townes, who is best known for his work on the maser and laser.

Overall, Townes is a unique and distinctive name with a straightforward meaning related to its origins as a place name.