A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Thompson since 1882
Babies named Thompson per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2018, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Thompson's real moment was 1891.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 13 |
| 1890s | 39 |
| 1900s | 24 |
| 1910s | 168 |
| 1920s | 207 |
| 1930s | 158 |
| 1940s | 205 |
| 1950s | 197 |
| 1960s | 136 |
| 1970s | 119 |
| 1980s | 161 |
| 1990s | 240 |
| 2000s | 290 |
| 2010s | 469 |
| 2020s | 299 |
Meaning & origin
Thompson is a surname-turned-given-name with strong roots in English patronymic tradition. First recorded in the U.S. in 1882, it peaked in popularity in 1891 and has seen a resurgence since 1985, reflecting broader trends in using surnames as first names. In 2025, it ranked 2332nd, with a 1-in-28,950 birth rate. Its top states include Georgia, Ohio, and Texas, indicating particular favor in the South and Midwest. The revival since the mid-1980s aligns with a renewed interest in classic, surname-style names, making Thompson a solid, understated choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth.
Thompson is an English patronymic surname meaning 'son of Thom,' a diminutive of Thomas. The name Thomas itself derives from the Aramaic 'toma,' meaning 'twin.' As a given name, Thompson emerged in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, where surnames were frequently adopted as first names. It has maintained steady use, especially in the South and Midwest.
Where Thompson is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Thom, Tom, Tommy
Variants: Thomson
Sibling names for Thompson
Names that share Thompson's style, for a brother or sister.
