Loftus is an English surname with roots in the Old Norse language. It was originally a locational name for people from the town of Loftos in Norway. The name spread to England during the Viking invasions, and has been found in various regions across the country. The Loftus family has a long history of military service and political involvement, with notable members including Thomas Loftus, Archbishop of Armagh, and John Loftus, 1st Viscount Loftus, an Irish politician. Today, the Loftus surname is relatively rare, but can be found in various parts of the world.