NELSON
Nelson
Nelson is a surname of English origin that is particularly prevalent in the United Kingdom. The name is derived from the patronymic form of the medieval given name "Nell", a diminutive of the name "Ellen", meaning "light" or "torch". The surname has Old English roots and is considered to be a common surname in England, especially in the northern regions.
Origins:
The surname Nelson can be traced back to the early medieval period in England. It was originally used as a personal name before evolving into a hereditary surname. The name became associated with various families across different regions of England over time.
Notable Individuals:
- Admiral Horatio Nelson (1758-1805): One of the most famous bearers of the surname, Admiral Horatio Nelson was a British naval officer known for his victories during the Napoleonic Wars. He played a significant role in the Battle of Trafalgar and is considered a British hero.
- Lord Nelson: Another notable figure with the surname, Lord Nelson was bestowed upon Admiral Horatio Nelson in recognition of his achievements.
Distribution and Legacy:
The surname Nelson is widely distributed in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries. It has become a common surname with a rich historical legacy, particularly associated with naval and military achievements.
In modern times, individuals bearing the surname Nelson can be found across various professions and fields, contributing to diverse areas of society.
Variants and Derivatives:
Variants of the surname Nelson include Nel, Neilson, Nellson, and Nelsen among others. These variations reflect the evolution and adaptation of the surname across different regions and dialects.
Overall, the surname Nelson holds a significant place in British history and culture, with notable figures and a widespread presence in contemporary society.
There are approximately 33,624 people named Nelson in the UK. That makes it the 231st most common surname in Britain. Around 516 in a million people in Britain are named Nelson.
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
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- William
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Nielson
- Neilson
- Nelsen
- Neilsen
- Nilsson
- Neall
- Neil
- Neale
- Nell
- Neal
- Niell
- Neils
- Nadelson
- Natelson
- Nealson
- Neelson
- Nalson
- Neslon
- Nelso
- Knowleson
- Knowlson
- Neilsson
- Neilston
- Nelissen
- Nellson
- Nelon
- Nelsons
- Nelsson
- Nelston
- Neson
- Netson
- Nieleson
- Nielsen
- Nielsson
- Nillsen
- Nillson
- Nilsen
- Nilson
- Nilssen
- Nolson
- Noulson
- Nowlson
- Nulsen
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.