Johnson is a popular given name of English origin. It is derived from the patronymic surname Johnson, which itself originates from the personal name John and the Old Norse patronymic suffix "-son". The name John has its roots in the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "God is gracious" or "God shows favor".
The surname Johnson was commonly used as a given name in England during the Middle Ages. It was also popular among Puritans who migrated to America in the 17th century, making it a common name in the United States today.
Some notable individuals with the given name Jonson include:
* Ben Jonson (1572-1637), an English playwright and poet
* Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), an English critic and biographer known for his work "A Dictionary of the English Language"
* James Johnson (1761-1825), a Scottish musician who composed one of the earliest collections of traditional Scottish melodies
In literature, Jonson is also used as a character's name in various works. For example, it appears in Charles Dickens' novel "Bleak House".
Overall, Jonson is a strong and established given name with a rich history that spans centuries and cultures.
The name Jonson has seen a fluctuating popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 16 babies being given this unique moniker between 1987 and 1998.
In 1987, there were six newborns named Jonson. The following years saw a slight decrease in popularity, with five babies named Jonson each year in both 1990 and 1998. Despite this fluctuation, it's clear that the name Jonson has maintained some level of appeal over these years.
It's fascinating to note that while the popularity of many names can rise and fall dramatically over time, Jonson has remained relatively stable during this period. This consistency could indicate that families are drawn to the distinctiveness of the name or perhaps its association with notable figures throughout history.
In conclusion, while the number of babies named Jonson may not have reached the heights of popularity enjoyed by some other names in recent years, it remains a distinctive and viable choice for parents looking for a unique name for their child.