ERICSSON
Ericsson
Ericsson is a British surname with Scandinavian origins, derived from the Old Norse personal name "Eirikr," meaning "eternal ruler." The name Ericsson indicates a paternal lineage, with the suffix "son" denoting "son of Eric."
Origin and Distribution
The Ericsson surname can be traced back to the Viking Age, when Norse settlers brought their naming customs to the British Isles. Over time, the name evolved into various spellings, including Erikson and Erickson. The surname is found primarily in Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, as well as in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking nations.
Notable Bearers
- Lars Magnus Ericsson (1846–1926): Swedish inventor and founder of the telecommunications company Ericsson.
- John Ericsson (1803–1889): Swedish-American engineer and inventor, best known for designing the USS Monitor, an ironclad warship used during the American Civil War.
- Sven Ericsson (b. 1955): British football coach and former player known for his successful managerial career in the English Football League.
Modern Significance
The Ericsson surname continues to be borne by individuals of Scandinavian descent, reflecting a connection to their Norse heritage. It serves as a reminder of the shared history between the Nordic nations and the British Isles, as well as the lasting influence of the Viking settlers on British culture and language.
There are approximately 120 people named Ericsson in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Ericsson.