A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Woodson since 1880
Babies named Woodson per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2025, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Woodson's real moment was 1886.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 30 |
| 1890s | 21 |
| 1900s | 25 |
| 1910s | 187 |
| 1920s | 170 |
| 1930s | 120 |
| 1940s | 137 |
| 1950s | 94 |
| 1960s | 57 |
| 1970s | 12 |
| 1980s | 30 |
| 1990s | 12 |
| 2000s | 55 |
| 2010s | 182 |
| 2020s | 227 |
Meaning & origin
Woodson is a rare American given name that originated as a surname, carrying the earthy meaning of 'son of the woods'. It first appeared in Social Security records in 1880, reaching its peak rank of 2421 in 1886. After a long period of near-dormancy, the name has been rising in use since 1998, a trajectory that aligns with the modern revival of surname-style names. In 2025, approximately 1 in 30,501 boys received the name, making it an uncommon choice. The name has been most popular in Texas, reflecting its Southern roots. Woodson offers a rugged, outdoorsy feel that fits well with other revived surname names.
Woodson is an English surname turned given name, derived from the Middle English 'wode' meaning 'wood' and 'son', thus 'son of Wood' or 'son of the woods'. It originated as a patronymic surname for someone whose father was named Wood or who lived near a wood. As a given name, it has seen occasional use in the United States since the 19th century, particularly in the South.
Where Woodson is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Wood, Woody, Sonny
Sibling names for Woodson
Names that share Woodson's style, for a brother or sister.
