Johnson

Johnson is a common British surname that originated from the given name "John," a derivative of the Hebrew name "Yochanan" meaning "God is gracious." It is one of the most frequently found surnames in the United Kingdom, particularly in England.

Origins

The surname Johnson first appeared in the early 11th century, where it was used as a patronymic surname to denote 'son of John'. Over time, Johnson became a hereditary surname passed down through generations.

Distribution

The Johnson surname is widely distributed throughout the UK, with significant populations found in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is prevalent in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London.

Notable Individuals

  • Samuel Johnson (1709-1784): Renowned English writer, lexicographer, and critic known for his influential work, A Dictionary of the English Language.

  • Boris Johnson (born 1964): Current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, serving since 2019. Prior to his political career, he was a journalist and Mayor of London.

  • Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson (born 1972): American actor and former professional wrestler, with British heritage through his father's side.

Legacy

The Johnson surname has been carried by numerous individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, including literature, politics, entertainment, and more. Its enduring popularity reflects its deep roots in British history and its widespread presence across the country.

Sorry, we don't have any statistics on this name. That's probably because it's very uncommon in Britain.

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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