Discover people named Iva Nelson

The last name "Nelson" has its origins in England and is derived from the given name "Nell," which itself is a diminutive of names like Eleanor or Helen, combined with the suffix "-son," meaning "son of." This surname first appeared in the medieval period, particularly in the northern regions of England, and it reflects a patronymic tradition where surnames were formed to denote lineage. The meaning of "Nelson" can be interpreted as "son of Nell," and it often signifies familial connections to individuals who bore the name Nell or its variants. Variations of the surname can be found in different cultures, such as "Nielsen" in Denmark and Norway, which translates to "son of Niels," and "Nélson" in Portuguese-speaking countries, where the spelling reflects local phonetics. The surname has also been associated with notable historical figures, including Admiral Horatio Nelson, which has contributed to its prominence in English-speaking countries. Overall, the surname Nelson encapsulates a rich historical lineage and cultural significance across various regions.