Johnson
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What does the baby name Johnson mean? Learn about what Johnson means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Johnson - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Spelling of Johnson
- J-O-H-N-S-O-N, is a 7-letter male given name.
- Pronunciation of Johnson
- JAHN-sən
- JON son
- Meaning of Johnson
- Son of john, god is gracious.
- Origin of Johnson
- The name 'Johnson' finds its roots in medieval England. Derived from the given name 'John', which itself originates from the Hebrew name 'Yochanan', meaning 'God is gracious', 'Johnson' is a patronymic surname. It signifies 'son of John', reflecting the custom of using the father's name as a surname. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to the 14th century, making it a name with a rich history.
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- Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Johnson
- Johnston
- Jonson
- Popularity of Johnson
- Over the centuries, the name 'Johnson' has experienced fluctuations in popularity. In the 19th century, it gained prominence, likely due to the rise of industrialization and urbanization. Many individuals with the surname 'Johnson' migrated from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunities. This migration contributed to the name's increased usage during this time.
In the 20th century, the popularity of the name continued to rise, with notable spikes in usage during the mid-20th century. This can be attributed to several factors, including the influence of popular culture and the prominence of individuals with the surname 'Johnson' in various fields such as politics, sports, and entertainment. - Johnson currently has 1 like, and is in the top 14% of liked boy's names. The name Adom is slightly more popular than Johnson.
Etymology of Johnson
The linguistic roots of the name 'Johnson' can be traced back to Old English and Middle English. The name is a combination of 'John', derived from the Hebrew 'Yochanan', and the suffix '-son', which indicates 'son of'. The Old English form of 'John' was 'Johannes', which later evolved into 'John' in Middle English. The addition of the suffix '-son' created the surname 'Johnson', meaning 'son of John.'
Cultural Significance of Johnson
The name 'Johnson' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In African American culture, it is one of the most common surnames, often tracing back to the era of slavery when enslaved individuals were given the surnames of their owners. Despite its historical origins, the name 'Johnson' has become a symbol of resilience and strength within the African American community.
In Scandinavian cultures, 'Johnson' is often associated with Swedish or Norwegian ancestry. It represents a connection to the rich heritage and traditions of these countries.