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.
Here are some interesting statistical facts about the name Johnson over time in the United States:
From 1880 to 1923, the number of babies named Johnson fluctuated between 11 and 85 births per year. The peak was reached in 1921 with 85 births.
Between 1924 and 1970, there were fewer than 60 births per year for the name Johnson each year, except for a brief spike to 85 births in 1961.
From 1971 onwards, the number of babies named Johnson started increasing again. The highest number since then was recorded in 2000 with 111 births.
Overall, from 1880 to 2023, there were a total of 6,955 babies named Johnson born in the United States. This data showcases how the popularity of the name Johnson has changed over time, reflecting the preferences and trends in naming practices across different generations in America.