Origin & Meaning of the Robertson Surname
What does the last name Robertson mean?
The surname Robertson carries the meaning "Son of Robert." 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 153,666 bearers in the 2010 US Census, Robertson ranks as the #175 most common surname in the United States.
Where does the surname Robertson come from?
The Robertson 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 Robertson name far beyond its original homeland.
Language of Origin
The linguistic roots of Robertson 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 | Robertson |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Son of Robert |
| Origin | English |
| Language | Old English |
| US Rank (2010) | #175 |
| US Count (2010) | 153,666 |
| Per 100K People | 52.09 |
| First Letter | R |
Ethnic Distribution of Robertson
According to the US Census, the Robertson surname is distributed across the following ethnic groups. This data reflects self-reported ethnicity among 153,666 Americans with the Robertson last name.
| Ethnicity | Percentage |
|---|---|
| White | 73.42% |
| Black | 20.61% |
| Hispanic | 2.46% |
| Asian/Pacific Islander | 0.52% |
| Native American | 0.89% |
| Two or More Races | 2.11% |
Popularity of Robertson Over Time
Comparing US Census data from 2000 and 2010 shows how the Robertson surname has changed in prevalence.
The number of Americans with the Robertson surname increased by 3,367 between 2000 and 2010.
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Other English Surnames
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Frequently Asked Questions About Robertson
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