Paterson

Origin

Paterson is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the given name Patrick. The name Patrick comes from the Latin name 'Patricius', which means "nobleman" or "son of a noble father". The surname Paterson is common in Scotland and has spread to other English-speaking countries.

History

The Paterson surname has ancient roots in Scotland, with notable bearers in history. The name has been associated with various clans and families throughout Scottish history, with branches found in different regions, such as Ayrshire, Fife, and Lanarkshire.

Variations

Over time, variations of the Paterson surname have emerged, including Patterson and Pattison. These variations reflect changes in spelling and pronunciation as the name spread and evolved.

Notable People

  • William Paterson (1658–1719): Scottish politician and founder of the Bank of England.
  • Andrew Barton "Banjo" Paterson (1864–1941): Australian poet and author, best known for his iconic works such as "Waltzing Matilda" and "The Man from Snowy River".
  • Esi Edugyan nee Paterson (born 1977): Canadian novelist, winner of the Scotiabank Giller Prize for her novel "Half-Blood Blues".

Popularity

The surname Paterson remains a common surname in Scotland and is also found in countries with Scottish diaspora, such as Australia, Canada, and the United States.

Coat of Arms

The Paterson family may have various coat of arms designs associated with different branches of the family. These designs typically feature heraldic symbols that represent the family's values, history, or achievements.

In Popular Culture

The Paterson surname has been referenced in literature, music, and films, often as character names or as part of fictional family histories.

There are approximately 33,940 people named Paterson in the UK. That makes it the 228th most common surname in Britain. Around 521 in a million people in Britain are named Paterson.

Surname type: From given name or forename

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Helen
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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