Mason: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Mason mean and stand for?

Meaning:
English: One who works with stone
French: Stoneworker
Old French: Builder

Gender: Male

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Mason is pronounced may-sun

The name Mason originates from the occupational surname related to stonemasonry. It has roots in the French word "maçon," referring to a builder or stoneworker. Over time, it has transitioned from a last name to a popular first name, embodying the qualities of strength and craftsmanship.

Boy name variations

Family name origins & meanings

English and Scottish: occupational name for a stonemason, Middle English, Old French mas(s)on. Compare Machen. Stonemasonry was a hugely important craft in the Middle Ages.

Italian (Veneto): from a short form of Masone.

French: from a regional variant of maison "house."

American: George Mason (1725–92), the American colonial statesman who framed the VA Bill of Rights and Constitution, which was used as a model by Thomas Jefferson when drafting the Declaration of Independence, was a VA planter, fourth in descent from George Mason (?1629–?86), a royalist soldier of the English Civil War who had received land grants in VA. As well as being prominent in the affairs of VA, the family also produced the first governor of MI.

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Mason in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Mason Verger from Hannibal - A sadistic and wealthy character who becomes disfigured after an encounter with Hannibal Lecter.
Mason Lockwood from The Vampire Diaries - A werewolf and the uncle of Tyler Lockwood, who is trying to break the family curse.
Mason Evans Jr. from Boyhood - The protagonist of the film, following his growth and life experiences from childhood to adulthood.
Mason Greyback from Wizards of Waverly Place - A werewolf and the love interest of the character Alex Russo.
Mason Storm from Hard to Kill - A police detective who seeks vengeance after being left for dead by corrupt officials.

Popularity of the Name Mason

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Mason has enjoyed significant popularity in recent years, consistently ranking within the top 10 baby names for boys in the United States. As of 2023, Mason remains a favorite choice for parents, reflecting its enduring appeal. The name Mason originates from an English occupational surname meaning "stone worker" or "bricklayer," highlighting its historical roots in the masonry trade.

Notable individuals named Mason span various fields, including Mason Gamble, an American actor best known for his childhood role in the film Dennis the Menace, and Mason Jennings, a prominent American folk singer-songwriter whose work has garnered critical acclaim. The name has also made its mark in popular culture, with fictional characters named Mason featured in TV series such as Witches of East End, Wizards of Waverly Place, the Vampire Diaries, and Teen Wolf, adding to its modern-day relevance and recognition.