What does Pearson mean and where does it come from?
Pearson is traditionally a surname of English origin, meaning 'son of Peter' (which derives from the Greek 'Petros,' meaning 'rock'). While it has its roots in a patronymic naming tradition, it has recently been adopted as a first name for girls in the United States reflecting a trend toward surname
Cultural significance
Pearson has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of peter.
Peak popularity
Reached #9115 in 2019 — currently #3041 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Pearson?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Pearson?
Pearson works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Pearson Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Pearson Rose
Floral · soft ending
Pearson Mae
Sweet · timeless
Pearson Claire
French influence · crisp
Pearson Jane
Literary · strong
Pearson Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Pearson right now?
Falling — down 141 spots — currently #3041 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #3041 | 41 | ▼ down 141 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #2900 | 44 | ▼ down 95 · -2% births |
| 2021 | #2805 | 45 | ▲ up 12266 · +800% births |
| 2020 | #15071 | 5 | ▼ down 2042 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #13029 | 7 | ▲ up 1999 · +17% births |
| 2010 | #15028 | 6 | ▼ down 443 |
| 2005 | #14585 | 6 | — |
The story of Pearson
Pearson is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2005. With 1,438 total births recorded, Pearson remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #14585 in 2005 to #3041 in 2023. Pearson is used for both genders: 7% female and 93% male.
Names that peaked alongside Pearson in 2019:
Pearson by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 50 | |
| 1920s | 69 | |
| 1930s | 48 | |
| 1940s | 25 | |
| 1950s | 22 | |
| 1960s | 6 | |
| 1970s | 16 | |
| 1980s | 73 | |
| 1990s | 177 | |
| 2000s | 392 | |
| 2010s ★ | 505 | |
| 2020s | 45 | |
💎With 1,438 total births, Pearson is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Pearson?
What names sound and feel like Pearson?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Pearson also consider these
Common questions about the name Pearson
What does the name Pearson mean?
Pearson means "Son of Peter" — a name rooted in American 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 Pearson?
Pearson is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Pearson?
Pearson originates from American tradition. American 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 Pearson?
Pearson is a two-syllable name pronounced P IH1 R S AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Pearson a common or rare name?
Pearson is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.