Vernon

Vernon is a masculine name of French origin. It was originally a surname derived from the name of a town in Normandy, France.

The town's name comes from the Gaulish words 'verno', meaning alder tree, and 'dunum', meaning grove or forest. So the literal meaning of Vernon as a place name was 'alder tree grove'.

As a surname, it was likely first taken by someone who lived near or came from the town of Vernon. Over time, it transitioned into also being used as a masculine given name.

While the name Vernon no longer directly refers to alder trees, it has developed a natural, earthy quality befitting its origins as a place name rooted in the landscape.