Steensen

Steensen is a surname of Scandinavian origin. It is a patronymic derived from the given name Steen, meaning “son of Steen.” Steen is a Danish form of a medieval name associated with the word stone. In Denmark and Norway, such patronymics were used to indicate lineage, and during the 19th century many of these names became fixed hereditary surnames, including Steensen.

Geographic distribution: The surname is most common in Denmark and among Danish diaspora communities; it is also found in Norway and other Nordic countries, as well as in countries with substantial European migration such as the United States, Canada, Germany, and Australia.

Variants and cognates: Steensen reflects Danish orthography; related forms include Steen and other -sen patronyms in Scandinavian languages. In English-speaking countries, similar surnames such as Steenson may appear in records.

Notable people: The surname is carried by individuals across fields such as academia, sports, and the arts. Specific biographies depend on the person, and more detailed information can be found in biographical databases and professional registries.

Etymology and history: The root Steen is tied to a common medieval given name in Scandinavia, and the suffix -sen denotes “son of” in Danish naming practice. The surname Steensen thus originated as a patronymic and later became hereditary in many families, reflecting broader shifts in naming conventions in the region.