MallowbyNames

Swanson

SWAN-sun · Son of Swan

Peak popularity
1934
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Swanson since 1916

Babies named Swanson per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4711192019602000Most births 1934Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s11
1920s56
1930s29
1940s14
1950s5
1960s6
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Swanson is a surname-used-as-first-name that first appeared in U.S. Social Security records in 1916. It reached its peak usage in 1934, though it has never entered the top 1000. The name's trajectory has remained stable over time, reflecting its status as a rare but persistent choice. As a patronymic meaning "son of Swan," Swanson fits into the broader trend of using surnames as given names, particularly popular in the United States. While it has never been tied to any specific state or region, its classic surname style may appeal to families seeking an uncommon but familiar-sounding name.

Swanson is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning "son of Swan." The name Swan itself likely derived from the Old English personal name "Swan," which may have originated as a nickname for someone thought to resemble a swan. As a given name, Swanson is a modern American usage, primarily seen from the early 20th century onward.

Sibling names for Swanson

Names that share Swanson's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

S is for Swanson, our favorite little boy.

S is for Swanson…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Swanson's letter becomes Swanson's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Swanson's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Swanson mean?
Swanson is a patronymic surname meaning "son of Swan," with the root name Swan possibly originating as an Old English nickname.
Is Swanson currently popular as a baby name?
Swanson is not in the top 1000 U.S. baby names. It first appeared in Social Security records in 1916 and has never been ranked in the top 1000.
Is Swanson a boy or girl name?
Swanson is overwhelmingly used as a boy name, in line with its surname-as-first-name style.