Hudson

Son of Hudde

Hudson is an English boys’ name taken from a surname meaning “son of Hudde”. Hudde was a Middle English personal name, and the ending preserves the surname’s original family relationship. The Hudson River in New York adds a geographical association, but “river” is not the literal meaning of Hudson. The river was named for the navigator Henry Hudson. The surname history and the landscape association offer two different ways to connect with the name. Spoken in English, Hudson has a stressed first syllable and a quieter second one. The d and s at its centre give it a crisp edge. It can feel contemporary and substantial, particularly if you like a surname as a first name but prefer a relaxed rhythm to a grander, more elaborate sound.

Etymology: From an English surname formed from the Middle English personal name Hudde and -son.