AGNEW
Agnew
Agnew is a surname of Scottish origin that has also been present in Ireland. The name is believed to be derived from the Old Norse personal name "Agmundr," which consists of the elements "ag" meaning "edge" or "blade" and "mund" meaning "protection."
Origins:
The Agnew surname is associated with the historical region of Galloway in southwestern Scotland, with the Agnew family holding lands in the area and being recorded as a prominent clan. The name spread to other parts of Scotland and Ireland over time, resulting in Agnew families being found in various regions.
Notable Individuals:
1. Sir Andrew Agnew (1793–1849):
Sir Andrew Agnew was a Scottish Conservative politician and the 7th Baronet of Lochnaw. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) and was known for his involvement in promoting temperance.
2. Andrew Agnew (1824–1892):
Andrew Agnew was a Scottish minister and theologian who became the moderator of the Free Church of Scotland in 1890.
Variants:
Variants of the Agnew surname include Agneau and Aggnew, reflecting the various phonetic spellings that have arisen over the centuries.
Heraldry:
The Agnew family crest features a red and blue shield, a lion rampant holding a laurel wreath, and the motto "Consilio et animis" which translates to "By wisdom and courage."
Modern Distribution:
In the present day, individuals with the surname Agnew can be found not only in Scotland and Ireland but also in other parts of the United Kingdom and the wider world due to migration and global dispersal.
The Agnew surname carries with it a rich history and a connection to the lands of Scotland and Ireland, making it a significant marker of heritage for those who bear it.
There are approximately 4,552 people named Agnew in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,060th most common surname in Britain. Around 70 in a million people in Britain are named Agnew.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Richard
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jean
- Karen
- Lucy
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan