Wilson

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Wilson

Gender Boy
Origin German
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation "WIL-suhn"

Wilson, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of German origin.

Meaning of Wilson

Son of william

Wilson is an English patronymic surname meaning “son of Will” or “son of William”. It can also be a given name, derived from the surname.

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Meaning Son of william
Origin German
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #644 in 2024 Rising
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1910s)

Background & History of The Name Wilson

Wilson is a commonly used surname, and also occasionally a given name, with various origins and meanings. The name is of English origin and is derived from the patronymic form of the medieval personal name Will, a short form of William. The surname originated from the term "Son of Will" or "Son of William," indicating that the individual is the son of a person named Will or William. The name Wilson is a patronymic surname commonly found in England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The popularity of the name Wilson can be attributed to its association with many notable individuals throughout history. One famous bearer of the name is Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, who served from 1913 to 1921 and played a crucial role in establishing the League of Nations. Another notable Wilson is Owen Wilson, a renowned American actor known for his roles in movies like "Wedding Crashers" and "Midnight in Paris."

Furthermore, Wilson has gained recognition in various fields. In sports, notable Wilsons include Russell Wilson, the talented American football quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, and Serena Williams, who was born Serena Jameka Williams but is often called Serena Williams-Wilson. In the world of music, Nancy Wilson achieved fame as one of the founding members of the influential rock band Heart. Additionally, in literature, Edmund Wilson was a prominent American writer and critic, best known for his works on American literature and culture.

The name Wilson continues to be a favored choice for parents around the world due to its strong historical significance and association with esteemed individuals. Its versatility as both a surname and given name further adds to its popularity, making it a name of enduring appeal.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Wilson over the years.

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