Whitson

Whitson is a surname of English origin. It is believed to derive from the Old English personal name "Wittsige" meaning "wise son" or possibly from "wit" meaning "wit" or "cleverness" combined with "stan" meaning "stone". As a surname, it likely originated as a patronymic, indicating descent from someone named Wittsige. Over time, variations in spelling and pronunciation led to the modern form Whitson.

The surname Whitson is found in various English-speaking countries, with a notable presence in the United States. Historical records suggest early emigrants bearing the name traveled to North America, contributing to its spread. Like many surnames, Whitson has been associated with families who have participated in diverse professions and walks of life throughout history. There is no single, universally recognized origin point, but rather a dispersal and evolution of the name across different regions. Genealogical research often traces the specific lineage of a Whitson family back to its earliest known ancestors.