Hudson
Hudson is a boy name of English origin meaning “Son of Hugh”, pronounced HUD-sun. It ranked #17 in the United States in 2025, given to 8,583 babies, and peaked at #17 in 2025. Common nicknames: Hud, Huddy, Sonny.
How popular is Hudson 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 Hudson mean, and where does it come from?
Hudson is an English patronymic surname meaning "son of Hudde," a medieval diminutive of Hugh. The name carries strong geographical associations through the Hudson River, named after the English explorer Henry Hudson, who sailed up the river in 1609 while searching for a northwest passage. The Hudson River and Hudson Bay lend the name an adventurous, exploratory quality. Hudson has risen dramatically in popularity since the 2000s, appealing to parents who favour surname-style first names with rugged, All-American overtones.
How is Hudson used around the world?
Hudson is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Hudson?
Famous People Named Hudson
- Henry Hudson — English explorer
- Hudson Taylor — British Protestant Christian missionary to China
- Hudson Mohawke — Scottish music producer
Similar Names to Hudson
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Sibling Name Ideas for Hudson
Looking for names that pair well with Hudson? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Hudson mean?
Hudson is a boy name of English origin meaning "Son of Hugh." Hudson is an English patronymic surname meaning "son of Hudde," a medieval diminutive of Hugh. The name carries strong geographical associations through the Hudson River, named after the English explorer Henry Hudson, who sailed up the river in 1609 while searching for a northwest passage.
How do you pronounce Hudson?
Hudson is pronounced HUD-sun. Common variations include Hutson, Hodson.
Is Hudson a boy name?
Yes, Hudson is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Hud, Huddy, Sonny.