Johnson is a widespread patronymic name carried into Ireland from across the water.
Where does the Johnson name come from?
Johnson means “son of John” — John being one of the most popular personal names in all of Christendom, from a Hebrew name meaning “God is gracious.” It is a common patronymic of English and Scottish origin, and overlaps in the north with the Scottish border name Johnston.
Johnson in Ireland
The name came to Ireland with English and Scottish settler families and became established here, especially in Ulster, over the centuries. In some Irish cases it also stood in for the Gaelic Mac Sheoin or a similar name by translation. As a settled name, Johnson is found today across Ireland and among the diaspora in the United States, Canada, Australia and Britain.
Related Irish family names
You may also like Jennings, Jones, and Barry.
Frequently asked questions
Is Johnson an Irish surname?
Johnson is of English and Scottish origin and became a settled name in Ireland, especially in Ulster, through settler families.
What does Johnson mean?
It means “son of John,” from a Hebrew personal name meaning “God is gracious.”
Is there a Johnson family crest?
Family shield and crest artwork can be used as surname decoration, but formal arms belong to a particular person or documented line rather than to every Johnson bearer.
Explore Johnson Heritage Gifts
Browse the Johnson Scottish and Irish family heritage collection for exact-name blankets, mugs, apparel, ornaments and display pieces.