Petersen

Petersen is a surname of Danish and Norwegian origin, derived from the given name Peter. The suffix -sen is a patronymic marker meaning "son," so Petersen originally meant "son of Peter." The form is closely related to Peterson and Peters in other Germanic languages, and it is spelled Petersen in Denmark and Norway, while Peterson is common in English-speaking countries and in some Scandinavian communities.

In Denmark, Petersen is among the most common surnames; in Norway it is widely found as well. Through migration and diaspora, the name is now found worldwide, particularly in the United States and Canada, where it is associated with communities of Danish and Norwegian ancestry. The spelling can vary by region, with alternates such as Peterson, Peters, and Petersson.

The name has been used for various places and institutions, including the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, a prominent museum founded by Robert E. Petersen.

Numerous individuals bearing the surname Petersen have made contributions across fields such as science, sports, and culture. Related forms include Pedersen, another Danish variant derived from Peter.