The surname Nilssen is derived from the Scandinavian personal name Njáll. This name is in turn derived from the Gaelic name Niall, which was adopted by Scandinavian settlers in Ireland. The Gaelic Niall is thought to mean “champion.” Over time, the forms Niels and Nils developed. The patronymic surname Nilssen was formed when the suffix "sen," or "son," meaning “son of” was added to a personal name. The name comes from the same root as the English name Neil.
Nilssen Spelling Variations
Spelling variations of this family name include: Nielson, Nielssen, Niellsen, Nilsen, Nilson, Nilssen and many more.
