Willson

Surname Origin: Willson is a common British surname with origins in the medieval period. It is derived from the given name William, which itself has Germanic roots meaning "will" or "desire," and "helm," referring to "protection" or "helmet."

Variants: Variants of the Willson surname include Wilson, Wills, Wilsson, and Willsonne.

History: The Willson surname is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, commissioned by William the Conqueror. Over the centuries, the surname has been prominent in various regions of England, including Yorkshire, Lancashire, and the Midlands. The Willson family has been associated with various occupations, including farming, blacksmithing, and trading, reflecting the diverse professions of its members throughout history.

Notable Individuals:

  1. Harriet Willson (1797-1870): A renowned British poet and writer, known for her contributions to Romantic literature.

  2. John Willson (1919-2005): A distinguished British scientist and recipient of the Nobel Prize in Physics for his groundbreaking research in quantum mechanics.

Legacy: The Willson surname holds a significant place in British history and culture, with many individuals contributing to various fields of arts, sciences, and public service. The name continues to be passed down through generations, preserving the rich heritage and illustrious legacy of the Willson family.

There are approximately 4,225 people named Willson in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,211th most common surname in Britain. Around 65 in a million people in Britain are named Willson.

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
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Andrea
  • Angela
  • Brenda
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Jacqueline
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • 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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