Nilsson Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Nilsson come from? What does the surname Nilsson mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Nilsson and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Nilsson Origin: What does the last name Nilsson mean?
Nilsson is a Swedish surname that is patronymic in nature, meaning "Nils's son." The name originated in Sweden in the early 14th century and has remained closely associated with the country through the centuries. Nils was a common name in 19th century Sweden, contributing to the popularity of the Nilsson surname. By the 19th century, the surname had seen a significant increase in records in Sweden, becoming the fourth most common surname in the country. Today, Nilsson is not only prevalent in Sweden but also in many other countries worldwide, reflecting its global spread over time.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Nilsson surname in Sweden and its gradual spread to other countries over the centuries. The surname has maintained its prominence in Sweden and can now be found in numerous countries around the world, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution. The Nilsson surname represents a rich Swedish heritage and continues to be a common and recognizable name in various regions and cultures globally.
Nilsson Last Name History: Where did the last name Nilsson come from?
Origin of Nilsson Surname: Where does the last name Nilsson originate from?
Based on the YourRoots database, the earliest records of the Nilsson surname can be traced back to Sweden in the early 14th century. It's important to note that this pertains exclusively to the precise spelling of "Nilsson" within YourRoots' records and does not encompass other potential sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Nilsson: What does the Nilsson surname history look like in the early days?
The YourRoots data suggests that the Nilsson surname has remained predominantly associated with Sweden from the 14th through the 18th century. Although the frequency of the Nilsson surname in our records is predominantly in Sweden, it's worth noting that our database also contains Nilsson records from other countries, suggesting a gradual global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Nilsson surname today?
By the 19th century, the volume of records with the Nilsson surname in Sweden had seen a significant increase. Today, the Nilsson surname is prominent not only in Sweden but also in many other countries worldwide, as evidenced by the number of records in the YourRoots database. The Nilsson surname can now be found in numerous countries, demonstrating its global spread over time.
Explore Nilsson last name heritage and Nilsson surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Nilsson Surame?
Harry Nilsson
Harry Edward Nilsson III (June 15, 1941 – January 15, 1994) was an American singer-songwriter known for his innovative vocal overdub techniques and fusion of Caribbean sounds in the early 1970s. He achieved commercial success without extensive touring, with hits like "Without You" and "Coconut". Nilsson collaborated with Randy Newman and even influenced The Beatles, earning him the nickname "the American Beatle". Despite a hiatus for gun control advocacy, he left a lasting impact on indie rock music. Nilsson's Grammy-winning songs and gold records solidified his legacy as a pioneering figure in the music industry.
Bernt Nilsson
Bernt Nilsson (August 22, 1939 - ) is a Swedish former swimmer known for competing in the men's 200 metre breaststroke at the 1960 Summer Olympics. He made a splash in the swimming world with his remarkable skills and dedication to the sport. Nilsson's achievements have solidified his legacy in Swedish sports history, inspiring future generations of athletes to chase their aquatic dreams.
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