Last Names

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Vinson

What is the origin of the last name Vinson?

English originPatronymic (from a parent or ancestor)Rank #1,401 in the US

Meaning and origin

The last name Vinson is of English and Scottish origin. It is derived from the patronymic surname Vincent, meaning "conqueror" or "prevailing," which itself comes from the Latin name Vincentius. The name gained popularity in medieval times and spread throughout England in various forms, including Vincen and Vinson. Over time, it also made its way to Scotland, where it acquired variations such as Vinsoun and Vynsoun. The surname Vinson primarily emerged as an anglicized adaptation of these Scottish forms. Overall, it is a testament to the diverse roots and historical migration patterns that have shaped the etymology of this particular surname.

The longer story

The last name Vinson has several interesting facts and historical connections. In terms of etymology, Vinson is derived from the given name Vincent, which itself originated from the Latin name Vincentius.

Vinson is primarily found in English-speaking countries, with a significant presence in the United States. This suggests that the surname has strong Anglo-Saxon roots that were brought over to North America by early immigrants. The distribution of this surname within the United States is somewhat uneven, with higher concentrations in certain regions such as the southern states.

The meaning of the last name Vinson can be traced back to its Latin roots. The name Vincentius is derived from the Latin word "vincens," which means to conquer or be victorious. The name's etymology suggests a lineage of ancestors who were reputed for their resilience and ability to overcome challenges.

Surname origins are rarely settled: one spelling can have several sources, and families often took a name for reasons nobody wrote down. Check it against the sources below before you rely on it.

#1,401

Vinson was the 1,401st most common surname in the 2010 US Census, with 25,341 people, about 8.2 in every 100,000.

Who carries it

  • White (non-Hispanic)65.6%
  • Hispanic or Latino2.1%
  • Black (non-Hispanic)28.9%
  • Asian or Pacific Islander0.5%
  • Two or more races2.4%
  • American Indian or Alaska Native0.6%

Where it is found

Countries linked to Vinson.

Surnames like Vinson

Names it is linked with, then names with the same origin and a similar standing.

Check the sources

For a name you are serious about, compare the dictionaries: Reaney and Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames; Hanks, Dictionary of American Family Names.