Willson

Willson is a surname of English origin. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it derives from the given name "Will". The name Will itself is a diminutive of William, which has Germanic roots, combining "wil" (desire, will) and "helm" (helmet, protection). Therefore, Willson literally means "son of Will". The surname is found throughout English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States, and has a long history of documented use.

Over time, variations of the surname may have emerged due to spelling differences or phonetic shifts. However, Willson remains a common and recognizable form. Individuals with the surname Willson have contributed to various fields, including science, arts, politics, and sports, although no single prominent figure universally defines the name. Like many surnames, its prevalence can vary significantly by region. Genealogists often trace the Willson lineage to identify ancestral origins and family connections. The distribution and history of the Willson surname reflect broader patterns of migration and settlement among English-speaking populations.