Origin
Old French origin, from 'maçon' meaning 'stoneworker' or 'stone mason'. The name entered English usage around the 13th century. In Australian contexts, it gained popularity in the 20th century partly due to cultural trends and the association with craftsmanship and strength.
Meaning
Literal meaning 'stone worker' or 'stone mason'. In Australian English, it often connotes qualities of strength, construction, and reliability, reflecting traditional trades and building industries.
Pronunciation
/ˈmeɪsən/ (MAY-sen) – with stress on the first syllable; commonly pronounced in Australian English with a clear 'a' as in 'may'. , the 's' is soft, and the final 'n' is pronounced distinctly.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Mason (standard)
- Maisen (less common), variations in spelling are rare but may include 'Maisen' or 'Maesen' in creative or personal contexts.
- No widely recognised foreign variants, though the name is used as is across different languages.
Nicknames
- Mase
- Macy
- Maso
Name Days
- 25 April (Anzac Day)
- 26 January (Australia Day) - sometimes used for personal celebrations, though not a traditional name day in religious calendars.
- No specific religious or cultural name day — contemporary or secular celebrations may be observed.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with mason:
- James and Mason
- Liam and Mason,
- Oliver and Mason
Fun Facts
- The name Mason became extremely popular in Australia during the 2000s, reflecting a global trend influenced by American media.
- There have been several Australian athletes and artists named Mason, contributing to its modern appeal.
- In Australian Aboriginal contexts, the name Mason is generally considered of European origin and not traditionally used.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name mason:
- Strong
- Reliable
- Hardworking
- Resilient
- Modern
Aesthetic Qualities
Clean, modern, and balanced typographically. The name's straightforward spelling makes it visually appealing and easy to recognise in Australian media and signage.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in urban and suburban regions of Australia, particularly in states with strong construction and trade industries like New South Wales and Victoria.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8 (based on Pythagorean numerology), associated with power, ambition, and material success, fitting with Australian values of resilience and achievement.
Astrological Connections
Typically associated with the birth date of individuals bearing the name; no specific zodiac sign is directly linked to the name itself, but common traits align with Aries and Taurus characteristics—strength, stability, and determination.
Historical Context
The name Mason has no specific historical figures in Australian history, but it is associated with tradespeople, builders, and craftsmen historically. In popular culture, the name gained wider recognition through actors and athletes in Australia and abroad.
Linguistic Adaptability
Adapts well across English-speaking contexts, with no significant variant forms in other languages. The spelling remains consistent internationally, but pronunciation may vary slightly.
Famous People Named mason
- Mason Cox (AFL footballer)
- Mason Mount (English footballer often watched in Australia)
- Mason James (Australian musician)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 275 |
2023 | 345 |
2022 | 380 |
2021 | 459 |
2020 | 495 |