The name Gibson originates from an English surname derived from the medieval personal name Gib, a shortened form of the name Gilbert. Gilbert is an ancient Germanic name composed of the elements "gisil" meaning hostage or noble youth, and "berht" meaning bright or famous.

The earliest recorded use of the name Gibson as a first name dates back to the late 16th century in England. It emerged as a given name derived from the already established English surname Gibson, which was initially an occupational name for a young man who worked as an attendant or servant.

One of the earliest recorded bearers of the name Gibson was Sir John Gibson (1637-1717), an English politician and landowner who served as Lord Mayor of London in 1692. Another notable historical figure was William Gibson (1644-1702), an English Catholic priest and philosopher who was a prominent writer on logic and metaphysics.

In the 18th century, Gibson Clough (1700-1763) was an English author and poet known for his work "The Autobiography of a Censor." In the 19th century, Gibson Watt (1804-1876) was a Scottish inventor and engineer who made significant contributions to the development of early steam engine technology.

A more recent example is Gibson Kente (1932-2004), a prominent South African playwright and director who was instrumental in the development of contemporary black theatre in South Africa. His works, such as "Too Late" and "Mama and the Load," explored themes of social injustice and the struggles of urban life during the apartheid era.

Throughout history, the name Gibson has been borne by individuals from diverse backgrounds and fields, reflecting its enduring appeal and versatility as a given name.