pinkerton/ˈpɪŋkətən/EtymologyHabitational surname from a place near Dunbar, from an unexplained first element + Old English tūn (“enclosure”). This surname is well established in Scotland and Northern Ireland.pinkerton means A habitational surname from Old English. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 81 out of 100.nameA habitational surname from Old English.nounAn operative employed by the Pinkerton National Detective Agency founded by Allan Pinkerton (1819–1884).“My heart wells up in admiration of the man, as I think of his participation in the memorable struggle of Homestead. He fought the Pinkertons, the myrmidons of Capital.”