NAME PROFILE

Nelson

Nelson is a patronymic surname meaning 'son of Neil,' deriving from the Gaelic name Niall, which means 'champion.' The name has a strong, dignified quality, often associated with leadership, bravery, and a sense of justice.

Key Stats

Total births80,140
GenderMale (90% / 10%)
Peak year1959
Peak generationBoomer
First recorded1910
Most recent2025
Syllables2
Origin
Comeback nameNo

Popularity Trend (1910–2025)

19102025

Top States

VA — 20%PA — 20%NY — 20%IL — 20%GA — 20%

Notable People

Nelson Mandela (Anti-apartheid revolutionary, President of South Africa) · Nelson Piquet (Formula One driver) · Nelson Riddle (Arranger and conductor) · Nelson Eddy (Singer and actor) · Nelson Rockefeller (American politician, philanthropist)

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