Larson is a surname of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name Lárason. This name was formed with the patronymic suffix -son, which means "son of". Therefore, Larson translates to "son of Larsson".
The name Larsson itself comes from the Old Norse word larri, which means "lark". The lark is a small songbird known for its beautiful singing voice and its habit of rising high into the sky before descending in long, graceful curves. Thus, the name Larsson may have been given to a boy who was considered cheerful or melodious.
The surname Larson has a long history in Scandinavia, particularly in Sweden where it is one of the most common surnames. It is believed that the name originated in the province of Småland in southern Sweden. Over time, many people with the surname Larson have migrated to other parts of Europe and to North America, making it a globally recognized name.
Today, Larson is not only a popular surname but also a given name for boys. While it retains its Scandinavian roots and meanings, it has been embraced by families around the world who appreciate its unique sound and historical significance. As with any name, the meaning behind Larson can vary depending on cultural context and personal interpretation. However, for many people, this name holds connotations of Scandinavian heritage, musicality, and cheerfulness.
The name Larson has been used consistently over the years in the United States, with a notable increase in popularity since the mid-1980s. In the early decades of the 20th century, there were between five and seven births per year with the name Larson, reaching a peak of thirteen births in 1962.
There was a dip in the number of babies named Larson from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, with fewer than ten births per year during this period. However, since 1987, there has been a steady increase in the use of the name Larson. In fact, the number of babies named Larson has more than quadrupled from eighteen births in 1987 to fifty-eight births in 2023.
The total number of births with the name Larson in the United States over this period is 1570. This shows that while the popularity of the name may have waxed and waned over time, it has remained a consistent choice for parents nonetheless.