Wilson Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Wilson
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name WILSON. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Wilson
Gender
Male
Origin
Christian
Lucky Number
2
Meaning of the Name
Wilson is a patronymic surname meaning 'son of Will,' derived from the given name William, which means 'resolute protector.' It is commonly used as a first name in English-speaking cultures.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Moon
Positive Nature
Diplomatic, friendly, artistic, empathetic.
Negative Traits
Over-sensitive, moody, indecisive, prone to self-pity.
Lucky Colours
Green, cream, white.
Lucky Days
Monday.
Lucky Stones
Pearl, moonstone.
Harmony Numbers
1, 3, 4.
Best Suited Professions
Diplomats, mediators, caregivers, artists.
What People Like About You
Cooperative spirit, friendliness, artistic talent.
Famous People Named Wilson
Woodrow Wilson
Politician
28th U.S. President, Nobel Peace Prize winner, founder of the League of Nations
Brian Wilson
Musician
Co-founder of The Beach Boys, revolutionary music producer and songwriter
Owen Wilson
Actor
Academy Award-nominated actor known for roles in Wes Anderson films and comedies
August Wilson
Playwright
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, author of The Pittsburgh Cycle about African-American experience
Luke Wilson
Actor
Successful film actor known for roles in Old School, The Royal Tenenbaums, and Idiocracy
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's migration to America during colonial times established it as a cornerstone of American identity, with Wilson families participating in key historical moments from the Revolutionary War westward expansion. The establishment of Wilson Sporting Goods in 1913 cemented the name in global popular culture through sports equipment used by legends like Michael Jordan and Roger Federer. In academic and political spheres, figures like Woodrow Wilson shaped international policy and education, while in arts and entertainment, the Wilson brothers (Owen, Luke, and Andrew) and musical genius Brian Wilson created enduring cultural contributions. This multifaceted cultural presence makes Wilson not just a name but a symbol of enduring legacy across diverse fields.
Extended Personality Analysis
The name Wilson carries distinct personality associations rooted in its meaning and historical usage. Individuals with this name are typically perceived as dependable anchors in their social and professional circles. They exhibit a natural leadership quality combined with practical wisdom, often serving as the voice of reason in challenging situations. The 'resolute protector' essence of the name manifests as strong protective instincts toward family, friends, and principles they value. Wilsons tend to be methodical thinkers who approach problems with careful analysis rather than impulsive reactions.
In interpersonal relationships, Wilsons are known for their loyalty and consistency. They build trust through actions rather than words and maintain relationships over long periods. Their combination of traditional values and adaptive thinking allows them to navigate changing circumstances while maintaining core integrity. Professionally, they excel in roles requiring reliability, strategic planning, and ethical leadership. The balance between strength and compassion in the Wilson personality makes them particularly effective in mentoring roles, where they can provide both guidance and emotional support. These traits collectively create a personality profile of someone who is both a pillar of stability and a source of wise counsel.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Wilson maintains dual significance as both a prevalent surname and an emerging given name choice. As a surname, it consistently ranks among the top 10 most common in English-speaking nations, with particularly strong representation in the United States where census data shows over 800,000 individuals bearing the name. As a first name, Wilson has seen steady usage with occasional surges in popularity, often influenced by cultural factors like the 2000 film Cast Away which brought the name into popular consciousness. Modern parents choosing Wilson as a first name typically seek names that blend traditional resonance with distinctive character, appreciating its strong phonetic qualities and positive associations with reliability and success. The name performs well in professional contexts, conveying trustworthiness and competence. Recent naming data shows Wilson ranking in the 400-600 range for boy's names in the US, with particularly strong usage in southern states and among families valuing multi-generational naming traditions. The name's versatility allows it to work equally well in formal professional settings and casual social contexts.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Wilson embodies profound themes of legacy, protection, and enduring strength. The literal meaning 'son of Will' connects it to concepts of inheritance and continuity, representing the transmission of values, characteristics, and responsibility across generations. This patronymic origin makes Wilson a symbol of familial bonds and the ongoing narrative of lineage. The name carries connotations of the reliable foundation—much like the bedrock that supports structures while allowing for growth and adaptation above. In metaphorical terms, Wilson represents the archetype of the guardian who combines resolute determination with compassionate protection.
The symbolic resonance extends to concepts of integrity and moral fortitude. Wilson suggests someone who stands firm in their convictions while remaining open to reasoned discourse. In psychological symbolism, the name integrates the qualities of willpower (from William/Will) with nurturing protection (the 'son' suffix), creating a balanced personality capable of both decisive action and empathetic understanding. The recurring symbolic theme across various cultural representations is one of dependable support—the person or institution that remains steadfast through challenges while providing a safe harbor for others. This rich symbolic tapestry makes Wilson not just a name but a representation of enduring values in human relationships and social structures.