What does Woodson mean and where does it come from?
Woodson is a surname of English origin that has also been used as a given name. It is derived from the Old English words 'wudu' meaning 'wood' and 'son' meaning 'son of.' The name Woodson gained prominence in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often as a way to denote ances
Cultural significance
Woodson has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of the woods.
Falling — down 133 spots — currently #3465 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#3465 · Top 2.6%
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1980
1995
2000
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#3465
34
▼ down 133 · -6% births
2022
#3332
36
▲ up 903 · +44% births
2021
#4235
25
▼ down 528 · -11% births
2020
#3707
28
▲ up 1350 · +56% births
2015
#5057
18
▲ up 7196 · +260% births
2010
#12253
5
▼ down 3124 · -17% births
2000
#9129
6
▼ down 237 · +20% births
1995
#8892
5
▼ down 4382 · -37% births
1980
#4510
8
▼ down 1246 · +14% births
1965
#3264
7
▼ down 167 · -12% births
1960
#3097
8
▲ up 821 · +60% births
1955
#3918
5
▼ down 881 · -29% births
1950
#3037
7
▼ down 899 · -36% births
1945
#2138
11
▲ up 204 · +10% births
1940
#2342
10
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Woodson
1900Rank #1198
36
#3730
↘Falling
1900 - 202323 years
The story of Woodson
Woodson has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 1,158 total births recorded, Woodson remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #743 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #3465 in 2023.
Woodson means "son of the woods" — 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 Woodson?
Woodson is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Woodson have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Woodson?
Woodson 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 Woodson?
Woodson is a two-syllable name pronounced W UH1 D S AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Woodson trending right now?
Woodson is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Woodson
For a sister
Woodson & Hazel♡
Woodson & Josie♡
Woodson & Georgia♡
Woodson & Brady♡
For a brother
Woodson & John♡
Woodson & Everett♡
Woodson & Josie♡
Woodson & Georgia♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#3465
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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