Anderson
Anderson is a boy name of English/Scottish origin meaning “Son of Andrew”, pronounced AN-der-suhn. It ranked #363 in the United States in 2025, given to 898 babies, and peaked at #215 in 1882. Common nicknames: Andy, Ander, Sonny.
How popular is Anderson in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Anderson mean, and where does it come from?
Anderson is a patronymic surname turned first name, literally meaning "son of Andrew," and traces back to Scotland and northern England where surnames formed from a father's given name were common practice. It carries the same underlying meaning as Andrew, from the Greek andreios, "manly" or "brave," passed down through generations of families. The name has flourished in the American South as a given name and gained international visibility through figures like journalist Anderson Cooper, and it now fits comfortably alongside other surname-style names such as Jackson and Carter that parents favor for boys.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Anderson
- Anderson Cooper — American journalist and news anchor
- Anderson Silva — Brazilian mixed martial artist
- Anderson Varejão — Brazilian professional basketball player
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Sibling Name Ideas for Anderson
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Anderson mean?
Anderson is a boy name of English/Scottish origin meaning "Son of Andrew." Anderson is a patronymic surname turned first name, literally meaning "son of Andrew," and traces back to Scotland and northern England where surnames formed from a father's given name were common practice. It carries the same underlying meaning as Andrew, from the Greek andreios, "manly" or "brave," passed down through generations of families.
How do you pronounce Anderson?
Anderson is pronounced AN-der-suhn. Common variations include Andersen, Anders, Andersson.
Is Anderson a boy name?
Yes, Anderson is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Andy, Ander, Sonny.