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Madison vs Mason

Madison is an English baby name meaning This name literally translates to 'son of Maud' or 'son of Matthew', while Mason is an English baby name meaning This name traditionally refers to a skilled artisan who works with stone. Mason is the shorter of the two at 2 syllables.

Madison

/MAD-ih-sun/

Meaning
This name literally translates to 'son of Maud' or 'son of Matthew'.
Origin
English
Gender
Unisex
Syllables
3
Letters
7
Nicknames
Madisyn, Madyson, Maddison, Maddie, Maddy, Madisen
Loved
0 times

It originated as an English surname derived from the medieval female name Madde (a diminutive of Maud) or from the male name Matthew. The surname transitioned into a given name for boys in the 19th century, notably influenced by James Madison. It surged as a popular female name in the late 20th century, particularly following the 1984 film 'Splash'.

Full Madison name page

Mason

/MAY-sun/

Meaning
This name traditionally refers to a skilled artisan who works with stone.
Origin
English
Gender
Unisex
Syllables
2
Letters
5
Nicknames
Mayson, Mace, Maison, Masen, Macen
Loved
0 times

Originating from the Middle English word 'masoun' and the Old French 'masson,' it was initially an occupational surname for someone who built structures from stone. The root can be traced further back to the Germanic word 'macian,' meaning 'to make.' It transitioned from a surname to a popular given name in the late 20th century.

Full Mason name page

How to choose between Madison and Mason

  • Sound: Madison runs to 3 syllables (/MAD-ih-sun/) and Mason to 2 (/MAY-sun/). Mason pairs more easily with a longer surname.
  • Heritage: Both names share an English background, so neither leans further from your family's roots.
  • Nicknames: Madison shortens to Madisyn, Madyson, Maddison. Mason shortens to Mayson, Mace, Maison.
  • Usage today: While traditionally a masculine surname, it is currently one of the most common feminine names in the United States, Canada, and Australia. While historically a common surname in English-speaking countries, it is now one of the most popular masculine given names in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Madison vs Mason: common questions

Is Madison or Mason easier to pronounce?
Madison is said /MAD-ih-sun/ with 3 syllables, while Mason is said /MAY-sun/ with 2 syllables. The shorter one is usually easier for young children to say.
What is the difference in meaning between Madison and Mason?
Madison means This name literally translates to 'son of Maud' or 'son of Matthew'. Mason means This name traditionally refers to a skilled artisan who works with stone.
Which is more popular, Madison or Mason?
Madison and Mason are loved equally often by visitors here (0 each).