Patterson is a Scottish and Northern English patronymic surname meaning "son of Patrick". It originated in the Middle Ages from the given name Patrick and the common suffix -son, indicating filiation. The spelling Patterson is a common variant, alongside Paterson, Patteson, and Pattison. Etymology The surname derives from the Middle English personal name Pate, a diminutive of Patrick, combined with -son ("son of"). The Latin name Patricius, meaning "nobleman," was borne by Saint Patrick, the 5th-century patron saint of Ireland. Given Christianization of Ireland attributable to Saint Patrick, the name Patrick and its derivatives became immensely popular in the British Isles. Patterson thus carried both familial and religious resonance. Historical Distribution Records from the 13th and 14th centuries show early bearers such as Adam Patrikson (c. 1260) in Scotland. The surname spread across the Scottish Lowlands and into Northern England. Over time, emigration, particularly to the United States, expanded its footprint globally. Notable Bearers The name has been borne by many prominent individuals. Among them are William Patterson (1752–1835), an American judge and co-signer of the United States Constitution; Floyd Patterson (1937–2020), Hall of Fame boxer and former world heavyweight champion; and James Patterson (b. 1947), celebrated authorship such as the Alex Cross book series. Place Names United States locations named Patterson include cities in Arkansas, California, and Georgia, among others. Related Variants Cognate surnames across cultures include the Irish Fitzpatrick (meaning "son of Patrick") and Swedish Patriksson. Another English form is Patrickson from surnames you removed: However, Patterson is standard in both Scots and diaspora communities. Meaning: Son of PatrickOrigin: Scottish, EnglishType: Patronymic surnameUsage regions: Scotland, Northern England, United states, etc.