Boy Name · English Origin
Nelson
Last reviewed: June 2026
Nelson is a boy baby name of English origin, meaning "Son of Neil". It currently sits in the Top 1000 tier of US baby names for 2026, and parents who love Nelson often also consider Newton.
Names like Nelson
Frequently asked about Nelson
What does the name Nelson mean?
Nelson means "Son of Neil" and is of English origin.
What is the origin of Nelson?
Nelson originates in English naming tradition.
How do you pronounce Nelson?
Nelson has 6 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable.
Is Nelson a boy's or girl's name?
Nelson is primarily used as a boy's name in US records.
How popular is Nelson in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Nelson sits in the Top 1000 tier — distinctive but not obscure.
What names are similar to Nelson?
Names that share Nelson's sound and style include Newton, Norton, Nathon, Newell, Niles.