Origin & Meaning of the Pearson Surname
What does the last name Pearson mean?
The surname Pearson carries the meaning "Son of Pear." It is derived from the Old English language and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the occupations, locations, or characteristics of early bearers of the name. With 101,836 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Pearson ranks as the #308 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Pearson come from?
The Pearson surname has its roots in English heritage. Names of English origin often reflect the cultural, linguistic, and historical traditions of the communities where they first appeared. Over centuries, migration and cultural exchange have spread the Pearson name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Pearson trace back to Old English. Understanding the original language helps decode the meaning and evolution of the name from its earliest recorded forms to the modern spelling used today.
Quick Facts
| Surname | Pearson |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Son of Pear |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #308 |
| US Count (2010) | 101,836 |
| Per 100K People | 34.52 |
| First Letter | P |
Ethnic Distribution of Pearson
According to the US Census, the Pearson surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 101,836 Americans with the Pearson last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 72.14% |
| Black | 22.51% |
| Hispanic | 2.24% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.56% |
| Native American | 0.41% |
| Two or More Races | 2.14% |
Popularity of Pearson Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Pearson surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Pearson surname increased by 3,108 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pearson
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