All about the name

Johnson

Male

« Johnson is an English surname turned given name, meaning 'God is gracious', derived from the Hebrew Yochanan via Middle English John. It's one of America's most common surnames, now widely used as a first name too. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Johnson is a surname of English origin that has been widely used as a given name in recent years. The name is derived from the Middle English personal name John, which is ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan. The name John means "God is gracious" or "God shows favor." The surname Johnson is believed to have originated in the 14th century, possibly as a patronymic name meaning "son of John." It was often given to sons whose father was named John, and over time became associated with a particular family line. In the United States, Johnson is one of the most common surnames. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it is currently the fourth most popular surname in the country. The name has also been used as a given name by many famous individuals throughout history, including President Lyndon B. Johnson and actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Overall, Johnson is a strong and enduring name with a rich history and meaningful significance. Whether used as a first or last name, it remains popular today due to its timeless appeal and positive associations.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Johnson since 1880

Total births
6,955
Total since 1880
Peak year
2000
111 births
in 2023
48
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-4%
vs previous 5 years