“Son of Robert, or son of the Hob, which is a diminutive of Robert.”
United Kingdom origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#12821US 2021
5Births / yr
↓Falling
431All-time births
📅 Since 189800.03% of births at peak
How to pronounce Hobson
HAH·bsun
/ˈhɑ.bsən/ · stress on HAH · 2 syllables
“Son of Robert, or son of the Hob, which is a diminutive of Robert.”
United Kingdom origin · Boy name
What does Hobson mean and where does it come from?
Hobson is of Old English origin and is traditionally used as a surname. It gained popularity as a given name in the 19th century. The name is notably borne by the historical figure Hobson Jobson, which has colloquial relevance in various parts of the English-speaking world. It evokes a sense of heri
Cultural significance
Hobson has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of robert, or son of the hob, which is a diminutive of robert..
Peak popularity
Reached #315 in 1898 — currently #12821 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Falling — down 845 spots — currently #12821 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1900–2021#12821 · Top 9.5%
1900
1915
1920
1925
1930
1935
1945
1950
1955
1960
1975
2010
2020
2021
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2021
#12821
5
▼ down 845
2020
#11976
5
▲ up 328
2010
#12304
5
▼ down 6740
1975
#5564
5
▼ down 1419
1960
#4145
5
▼ down 556 · -17% births
1955
#3589
6
▼ down 166
1950
#3423
6
▼ down 332
1945
#3091
6
▼ down 490 · -33% births
1935
#2601
9
▼ down 246 · -25% births
1930
#2355
12
▼ down 110 · -14% births
1925
#2245
14
▲ up 779 · +56% births
1920
#3024
9
▼ down 337
1915
#2687
9
▼ down 1945 · -31% births
1900
#742
13
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Hobson
1900Rank #742
14
#5041
↘Falling
1900 - 202114 years
The story of Hobson
Hobson has been a beloved American name for over 126 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1898. With 431 total births recorded, Hobson remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #742 in 1900, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12821 in 2021.
Hobson means "Son of Robert, or son of the Hob, which is a diminutive of Robert." — a name rooted in United Kingdom tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hobson?
Hobson is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Hobson?
Hobson originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Hobson?
Hobson is a two-syllable name pronounced HH AA1 B S AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hobson a common or rare name?
Hobson is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Hobson
For a sister
Hobson & Lillian♡
Hobson & Millie♡
Hobson & Arthur♡
Hobson & Evie♡
For a brother
Hobson & Lillian♡
Hobson & Millie♡
Hobson & Arthur♡
Hobson & Edward♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2021
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#12821
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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