Firstly, the theory that the village is named after St. Everilda, the daughter of the 7th-century King Cyneglis of the West Saxons, who fled her home to practise Christianity in seclusion.

Upon reaching York she was allowed to set up a convent at a place that came to be known as 'Everildsham' (Everild's home), which some believe to have evolved into the current name; Everingham.

The second theory is that the name is derived from 'Eofor's Ham', meaning the 'ham' (home) of Eofor's people, who may have been a Saxon tribe in the area.

The value of the village had decreased considerably by 1086, however, probably as a result of the widespread destruction caused by William the Conqueror during his campaign to suppress rebellion in the north.

Population at the time was 271, with occupations including thirteen farmers, one of whom was a farrier, a carpenter, a shopkeeper, and a shoemaker.