Wilson: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: w-eels-ohn
Origin: Scotland
gender-male

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Apr 14, 2025 · 2 mins read
Region Origin: Northern Europe
Meaning: Son of will

Wilson is a popular English surname turned given name that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance. The name Wilson is of Old English origin, derived from the medieval given name Will, a diminutive of William, combined with the suffix -son, meaning "son of Will." Therefore, Wilson literally translates to "son of William." The name Wilson has been used as a surname in England since the medieval period, with records dating back to the 13th century. It was commonly used to denote the son of a man named William, a popular given name in England due to the influence of the Norman Conquest. Over time, Wilson transitioned from a surname to a first name, becoming a popular choice for boys in English-speaking countries. In terms of cultural significance, Wilson is a name that exudes strength, leadership, and determination. It is often associated with qualities such as loyalty, reliability, and a strong work ethic. Famous bearers of the name include former US President Woodrow Wilson, actor Owen Wilson, and musician Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys. Historically, the name Wilson has been prevalent in Anglo-Saxon and Scottish cultures, with notable individuals bearing the name throughout history. The name has also been brought to various other countries through migration and colonization, further solidifying its place as a timeless and enduring name. In conclusion, Wilson is a name with a long and storied history, rooted in English and Scottish heritage. Its meaning, cultural significance, and historical context all contribute

Wilson Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Wilson is currently #865 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Boy: Wilson is currently #411 on Kiindred Boy Names
gender-male Overall Nature: Wilson is currently #416 on Kiindred Nature Names
gender-male Boy Nature: Wilson is currently #206 on Kiindred Boy Nature Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Wikipedia, NSW Births Deaths and Marriages, QLD Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages, WA Registry of Births, SA Registry of Births, VIC Registry of Births, Social Security Administration

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