Pearson is an English surname of Norman origin that was brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name is derived from the Middle French word "perron," which means "pebble" or "small stone." It was originally given as a nickname to someone who resembled a small stone, perhaps due to their sturdy build or having a round face.
The surname Pearson has been recorded in many forms throughout history. Some variations of the name include Pearse, Pears, Paynter, and Payton. The name was particularly popular in the north of England, with early records showing that it was most commonly found in Yorkshire and Durham.
One notable bearer of the surname Pearson is Sir Isaac Newton's mother, Hannah Astell Pearson. She was a member of the landed gentry and owned several properties in Lincolnshire. Another famous figure with the name Pearson is Joseph Pearson, who was a British politician and MP for York from 1835 to 1847.
Today, Pearson remains a popular surname worldwide, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is also used as a given name, with its meaning of "pebble" or "small stone" often giving it a rustic or earthy feel.
In conclusion, Pearson is an English surname of Norman origin that was originally given as a nickname to someone who resembled a small stone. Over time, the name has evolved and been recorded in many different forms. Despite its humble beginnings, the surname Pearson has been carried by notable figures throughout history and remains popular today.
The name Pearson has been given to a total of 117 babies born in the United States between 2005 and 2023, according to the annual statistics provided. The number of births with this name has varied from year to year, ranging from a low of 5 births in 2013, 2020, and 2023 to a high of 11 births in 2019.
Over the past few years, there has been an increase in the number of babies named Pearson. Between 2018 and 2022, there were at least 9 births each year, with a peak of 11 births in 2019. However, it is important to note that these statistics are based on data from the Social Security Administration and may not capture every birth.
Despite fluctuations in popularity, Pearson remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents seeking something different for their child.