TheNameDBMichelson
PatronymicMeaning
A patronymic surname meaning 'son of Michael,' combining the given name Michael with the patronymic suffix -son.
Etymology
The surname uses the English/Scandinavian patronymic suffix '-son' (son of) combined with Michael, a naming pattern found in both Scandinavian and Jewish communities. The -son suffix became standardized in English-speaking countries as a way to create hereditary surnames.
About the Michelson Surname
Michelson is a patronymic surname with both Scandinavian and Jewish origins, indicating descent from Michael. The surname is particularly associated with the Nobel Prize-winning physicist Albert A. Michelson.
Distribution
Found in Scandinavian countries, Jewish communities worldwide, and English-speaking countries, particularly North America.
Notable Bearers
Albert A. Michelson (physicist and Nobel laureate), Menachem Mendel Michelson (Yiddish writer)