Erikson is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse elements "Eirikr" meaning "eternally powerful" or "always strong," and "son" which means "son." This name has a rich history and cultural significance in the Nordic countries.
The name Erikson was first brought to prominence by the 14th-century Viking explorer, Leif Erikson. Born in Iceland around 970 AD, Erikson was one of the first Europeans to set foot on North American soil, approximately five centuries before Christopher Columbus. According to the Vinland sagas, Erikson sailed westward from his base at Newfoundland and explored the coastline as far south as present-day New York City.
Erikson's legacy lives on in various ways. His name is immortalized through place names such as Cape Denison and Mount Leif Erikson in Antarctica, Leifsbudir (Leif's booths) in Greenland, and even a crater on the moon named after him. Furthermore, numerous statues and monuments have been erected in his honor across Europe and North America.
Today, Erikson remains popular among parents seeking unique yet meaningful names for their sons. It offers a blend of strength, power, and historical significance that can be passed down through generations. Despite its Scandinavian roots, Erikson has been embraced by cultures worldwide as a symbol of exploration, discovery, and enduring courage.
The name Erikson has seen fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable spike in recent times. The highest number of births recorded was in 2023, with 19 occurrences, marking an increase from previous years. Prior to this peak, there were several years with double-digit birth counts, including 2016 (18), 2017 (17), and 2018 (13). However, the late 1980s and early 1990s appear to have been less popular times for the name Erikson, with fewer than 10 births recorded each year. Overall, there were a total of 347 births named Erikson from 1981 to 2023.