Mattson is a unique and distinctive given name of Swedish origin. It is derived from the Old Norse personal name "Mats," which is composed of two elements: "maðr" meaning "man" and "þórn" meaning "thorn." Thus, Mattson can be interpreted as "son of Thorn."
The name Mattson has a rich history in Sweden. It was often used among the nobility during the Middle Ages, with several notable individuals bearing this name throughout Swedish history. One such example is Mats Aketsson (1312-1389), who served as the regent of Sweden and played a significant role in Swedish politics.
Mattson is not particularly common today, but it continues to be used occasionally in Scandinavian countries and beyond. It has a somewhat rustic and earthy feel due to its Old Norse roots, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
In terms of popular culture, Mattson is not extensively represented. However, there are some notable figures who share this name, such as American musician Mattson Rainer, known for his work in the indie rock scene. This further contributes to the uniqueness and intrigue surrounding the name Mattson.
The name Mattson has seen a fluctuating number of births over the past three and a half decades, with notable peaks in recent years. The most frequent annual count was six births, occurring four times between 1991 and 2014. However, the highest single-year total was recorded in 2021, with ten births.