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      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Hobson

      Origin

      English

      Meaning

      Son of Hob, Hob Diminutive of Robert

      Variations

      Robson, Hobbson, Thomson
      The name Hobson is of English origin and is derived from the Anglo-Saxon name Hob, which is a diminutive form of Robert. The suffix -son signifies “son of,” indicating lineage. Thus, Hobson translates to son of Hob. As a surname, it reflects medieval naming conventions where individuals often identified themselves in relation to their father’s name, capturing both familial connections and heritage.

      Hobson has historical roots stretching back to the English Middle Ages. The name can be found in various historical records and documents, particularly in regions of England where surnames became common as a means of identifying individuals within increasingly populous communities. One notable historical figure is Thomas Hobson, a 16th-century English carrier known for Hobson's Choice, an expression stemming from his business practice of offering customers only one option, which ultimately shaped folklore and idiomatic usage. This further established the name in the cultural narrative.

      In contemporary society, Hobson continues to be utilized as both a surname and a first name. It is seen in various contexts, including literature, academia, and even in modern businesses. While not as widely common as some other names, it retains a sense of tradition and heritage, often appealing to those interested in historical names or English lineage. Additionally, the phrase Hobson's choice persists in modern vernacular, illustrating the name’s lasting impact on the English language.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Hobson.
      Mary

      Mary

      This is the most common name of those married to a Hobson.
      Hobson

      Hobson

      This is the most common name for a child of a Hobson.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

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      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1898 is when there were the most people born with the first name Hobson.

      Explore the origins of another name.