Summary

This surname, Nelson, is of English origin and has a strong historical significance. It is derived from the combination of the given name 'Nell' and the patronymic suffix 'son,' meaning 'son of Nell.' Nelson was a popular surname among the Anglo-Saxon population, and its usage can be traced back to medieval times. The surname is associated with notable individuals like Admiral Lord Nelson, who played a vital role in the British Navy during the Napoleonic Wars.
There are
424958
Nelsons in the USA
Nelson is the
43rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Nelson

HoratioNelson

Horatio Nelson was a British naval commander who gained fame for his victories during the Napoleonic Wars, particularly the Battle of Trafalgar. He was known for his tactical brilliance and courageous leadership, and he played a crucial role in securing British dominance at sea.

RichardNelson

Richard Nelson was an influential American playwright and screenwriter known for his thoughtful and introspective works. His plays often explored themes of family dynamics, modern life, and the human condition.

JuddNelson

Judd Nelson is an American actor best known for his role as John Bender in the 1985 film 'The Breakfast Club.' He has also appeared in other popular movies, including 'St. Elmo's Fire' and 'New Jack City.'

WillieNelson

Willie Nelson is a renowned American singer-songwriter and musician, considered one of the pioneers of outlaw country music. He has released numerous hit songs and albums throughout his career and is known for his distinctive voice and songwriting talent.

OzzieNelson

Ozzie Nelson was an American actor, musician, and bandleader, best known for his role as Ozzie Nelson in the sitcom 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.' He and his wife Harriet Nelson were one of the most popular couples on television during the 1950s and 1960s.

RickyNelson

Ricky Nelson was an American singer, musician, and actor who gained fame as a teen idol during the 1950s and 1960s. He had numerous hit songs, including 'Travelin' Man' and 'Hello Mary Lou,' and starred in the TV series 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.'

CraigT.

Craig T. Nelson is an American actor known for his roles in the TV series 'Coach' and the films 'Poltergeist' and 'The Incredibles.' He has had a successful career in both television and film, and his performances have earned him critical acclaim and several awards.

EmmylouHarris

Emmylou Harris is an American singer-songwriter known for her contributions to country, folk, and Americana music. She has released numerous albums and has won multiple Grammy Awards for her heartfelt and soulful performances.

MatthewNelson

Matthew Nelson is an American musician and singer-songwriter who gained fame as one half of the rock band Nelson, along with his twin brother Gunnar Nelson. The band achieved success in the early 1990s with their hit song 'Love and Affection.'

GunnarNelson

Gunnar Nelson is an American musician and singer-songwriter who, along with his twin brother Matthew Nelson, formed the rock band Nelson. The band achieved success in the early 1990s with their hit song 'Love and Affection.'

Nelson Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Nelson' is of English and Scottish origin. It is derived from the patronymic form of the given name 'Neil,' which means 'champion' or 'cloud.' The surname 'Nelson' was originally a personal name given to someone whose father or ancestor was named Neil.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Nelson' is widely distributed in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It can also be found in Scandinavian countries like Norway and Sweden.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Nelson' include 'Nilson,' 'Nielson,' and 'Nelleson.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Nelson' has been carried by immigrants to various countries, especially during periods of emigration from the British Isles. Many individuals with the surname 'Nelson' have settled in North America and other English-speaking regions.