How common is the Olsson surname?

There are approximately 85,000 people with the surname Olsson in the United States.

Are there Olsson soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 10 soldiers with the Olsson surname appear in Civil War records.

Olsson

Q: What does the surname Olsson mean?

The surname Olsson means "Son of Olof, a Scandinavian given name derived from Old Norse elements meaning 'ancestor' and 'heir.'". It is of Swedish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Olof, a Scandinavian given name derived from Old Norse elements meaning 'ancestor' and 'heir.'

Etymology

Swedish patronymic surname formed from the given name Olof with the suffix -sson meaning 'son.' Olof itself derives from Old Norse Ólafr, composed of anu- (ancestor) and leifr (heir).

About the Olsson Surname

A common Scandinavian patronymic indicating descent from someone named Olof. The surname became standardized in Sweden during the medieval period and remains one of the most frequent surnames in the region.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 85,000 bearers in the United States #431 most common surname

Rare Common

Predominantly found in Sweden and Scandinavian countries.

Olsson Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Olsson Surname

Oscar Olsson

Quick Facts

Origin: Swedish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval Sweden, common from 16th century onwards
Estimated Bearers: 85,000

War Records

10 soldiers with the Olsson surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →