The name Johnson is an English name derived from the personal name John, which has its origins in the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning "Graced by God" or "Yahweh is gracious." The suffix "-son" is an English patronymic, indicating that the bearer is the son of someone named John.

In the Middle Ages, the name Johnson emerged as a common surname in England, often given to the son of a man named John. It was particularly prevalent in areas with a strong tradition of using patronymic surnames, such as the northern counties of England.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Johnson can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive record of landowners in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name appears as "Jonesson," reflecting the Old English spelling.

The name Johnson has a long history in English literature and culture. In the 16th century, the playwright Ben Jonson (1572-1637) was a prominent figure in the English Renaissance. His works, such as "Volpone" and "The Alchemist," are considered classics of English drama.

In the 18th century, Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) was a renowned English writer, critic, and lexicographer. His "Dictionary of the English Language," published in 1755, was a landmark achievement and a significant contribution to the standardization of the English language.

Other notable individuals with the name Johnson include Andrew Johnson (1808-1875), the 17th President of the United States; Jack Johnson (1878-1946), the first African American world heavyweight boxing champion; and Virginia Johnson (1925-2013), a pioneering American sexologist and researcher.

Throughout history, the name Johnson has been borne by individuals from various walks of life, including artists, scientists, politicians, and athletes. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its strong English roots and its association with notable historical figures.