Steinsson is an Icelandic patronymic surname, meaning literally "son of Steinn". It is formed by combining the masculine given name Steinn (itself derived from Old Norse steinn meaning "stone") with the Icelandic suffix -son ("son"). Unlike in many other cultures, Icelandic surnames are typically not inherited but rather indicate the father's name, though patronymics may become fixed in some families, especially those who have emigrated. The name reflects the Old Norse naming tradition of identifying a person by their father's name, which remains a living practice in Iceland. Notable Bearers Several Icelandic notables bear the surname Steinsson. Grétar Steinsson (born 1982) is a former professional footballer who played for various clubs in Europe, including Bolton Wanderers in the English Premier League. Guðmundur Steinsson (born 1960) is also a former professional footballer. Unnur Steinsson (born 1963) was Miss Iceland in 1983 and later a television host. Jón Steinsson (born 1970) is a prominent economist serving as Chancellor's Professor of Economics at the University of California, Berkeley. Related Names and Variants Variants and cognate surnames exist in other Scandinavian and Germanic cultures. The Danish equivalent is Steensen, while other forms include Stensen, Stenson, and Stensson (Swedish), as well as Stinson from English and Scottish traditions. Meaning: Son of Steinn Origin: Icelandic (patronymic) Usage region: Iceland and diaspora Gender: Male (patronymic applies to sons; daughters would use -dóttir suffix)