Johnson

Meaning

Son of John

Etymology

A patronymic surname meaning "son of John." From the medieval personal name John (from Hebrew Yochanan, "God is gracious") with the addition of -son.

About the Johnson Surname

Johnson is one of the most common surnames in the English-speaking world, a straightforward patronymic indicating descent from a man named John. Its prevalence mirrors the enormous historical popularity of the first name John.

Distribution

Second most common surname in the United States. Widespread throughout the English-speaking world and Scandinavia.

Notable Bearers

Samuel Johnson, Andrew Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Robert Johnson