Gilson

Origin

Gilson is a surname of British origin, derived from the medieval given name Giles. The name Giles itself is of Greek origin, derived from the name Aegidius, meaning "a young goat". Over time, the surname Gilson evolved as a patronymic name, meaning "son of Giles".

Distribution

The surname Gilson is most commonly found in England, particularly in the southern counties such as Kent, Sussex, and Hampshire. It can also be found in Scotland and Wales, as well as in former British colonies, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Variants

Variants of the surname Gilson include Gillson, Gillison, and Jilson. These variations have developed over time due to differences in pronunciation and regional dialects.

Notable People

  • James Gilson (1831–1912) - English architect known for his work in designing public buildings in the Victorian era.
  • Sarah Gilson (born 1975) - British actress best known for her roles in theatre productions in London's West End.
  • Thomas Gilson (1804–1890) - Scottish-born settler who contributed to the development of agriculture in the colonies of Australia.

Coat of Arms

The Gilson family coat of arms features heraldic symbols such as a shield with a goat or a lion motif, representing strength and courage. The crest may include elements such as a crown or a helmet denoting nobility and valour.

Modern Usage

Today, the surname Gilson continues to be used by many families of British descent, serving as a link to their ancestral roots and history. It is also a popular choice for businesses and organisations seeking to evoke a sense of tradition and heritage.

Overall, the surname Gilson holds a rich history and remains an enduring symbol of British identity and lineage.

There are approximately 2,225 people named Gilson in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,851st most common surname in Britain. Around 34 in a million people in Britain are named Gilson.

Surname type: From name of parent

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • Daniel
  • David
  • Jeremy
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard

Female

  • Carol
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Janet
  • Jean
  • Judith
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Ruth
  • Susan
  • Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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