Goodman is an English surname that has its roots in the medieval period. The name is derived from the Old English words “god” and “man,” which together mean “a good man.” The Goodman family can be traced back to various parts of England, including Kent, Suffolk, and Yorkshire. Today, the surname is fairly common in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. Notable individuals with the Goodman surname include jazz musician Benny Goodman and novelist Allegra Goodman.