ARMSTRONG
Armstrong
Origin of the Name
Armstrong is a prominent surname of English and Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Old English words "eormen" meaning 'army' and "strang" meaning 'strong', indicating a person of strength or a warrior. The Armstrong surname therefore signifies a strong individual associated with military prowess or bravery.
Historical Significance
The Armstrong surname has a long and storied history in England and Scotland. The Armstrong clan was a powerful Border Reiver family in the Anglo-Scottish border region, known for their military skills and their involvement in the constant border conflicts between England and Scotland during the medieval and early modern periods.
Notable historical figures bearing the Armstrong surname include Sir William Armstrong, a renowned British engineer and inventor, known for his development of hydraulic machinery and armaments. Another prominent individual was Neil Armstrong, the American astronaut who became the first person to walk on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
Distribution and Modern Times
In modern times, the Armstrong surname is still widespread, with concentrations in regions such as Northumberland in England and the Scottish Borders. Many individuals with the surname Armstrong have achieved success in various fields, including sports, entertainment, politics, and academia.
The Armstrong tartan, a distinctive plaid pattern associated with the clan, remains a symbol of pride and heritage for many bearers of the Armstrong name. Additionally, numerous Armstrong family associations and gatherings continue to celebrate the shared history and accomplishments of those who bear this illustrious surname.
Overall, the Armstrong surname holds a significant place in British history and is a testament to the strength, resilience, and achievement of those who have borne the name throughout the centuries.
There are approximately 50,962 people named Armstrong in the UK. That makes it the 135th most common surname in Britain. Around 783 in a million people in Britain are named Armstrong.
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Alison
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.