The name Thompson is of English origin and is derived from the Old English words tun, meaning enclosure or settlement, and ing, meaning son of. Thompson is a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from the name of a father or ancestor. In this case, it is thought to have originated as a son of a man named Tom or Thomas. Thompson is a popular surname in the United States, ranking as the 23rd most common surname in the country, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The name Thompson has been borne by several notable historical figures, including the Scottish poet and songwriter Robert Burns, who wrote under the pseudonym Tom Thompson. Another famous Thompson is the American inventor and businessman Elias Thompson, who developed the first practical typewriter in the 1860s. Thompson is also a common name in sports, with notable athletes including basketball player Mychal Thompson, football player Jason Thompson, and baseball player Frank Thompson. The name Thompson has also been associated with several fictional characters, such as the detective Tommy Thompson in the popular video game series L.A. Noire, and the character Tom Thompson in the animated TV show The Simpsons. Thompson is a name that has been used across many cultures and languages, with variations including Thomson, Thompsett, and Tompson. The name Thompson has a strong, masculine sound, and is often associated with qualities such as strength, courage, and determination. Thompson is a name that has been borne by many notable people throughout history, and continues to be a popular choice for baby boys today.

The root form of Thompson is Thompson — meaning Son of Tom.

Thompson remains a beloved choice, ranking #44 in the US. Timeless appeal across cultures and generations.