Johansson

Johansson is a Swedish patronymic surname meaning "son of Johan," formed with the common suffix -sson. The given name Johan is a form of John, which itself derives from the Hebrew Yoḥanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." The name follows a standard Swedish pattern in which a father's given name becomes the basis for a family surname.

Johansson is one of the most common surnames in Sweden and is widely found among people of Swedish descent abroad. In Finland, it appears within the Swedish-speaking population and in communities with Swedish heritage. In other Nordic countries, related patronymic forms exist, such as Johansen in Norway and Denmark, but Johansson is specifically the Swedish form.

Historically, patronymic surnames were not fixed, changing with each generation. From the 19th century onward, Johansson and similar names became inherited family names, passed down regardless of the father’s given name. Today, the surname denotes family lineage rather than a direct parental connection.

Notable bearers include American actress Scarlett Johansson, whose international recognition has brought attention to the surname. Beyond celebrities, Johansson is carried by many individuals across professions, including athletes, scientists, and artists, reflecting the surname’s widespread use in Sweden and among Swedish-speaking communities worldwide.