CAMPBELL
Also recorded as Camp-Bell
Campbell
Campbell is a prominent Scottish surname of Gaelic origin. The name is derived from the Gaelic words "cam" and "béal," which together mean "crooked mouth" or "wry mouth." This surname has a long and rich history, with the Campbell clan being one of the largest and most powerful Highland clans in Scotland.
Origins and History
The Campbell clan can trace its origins back to the 13th century when the first recorded Campbell, Gillespic Cambel, served as a witness to a royal charter in Argyll. The clan went on to become one of the most influential families in Scottish history, holding titles such as the Earls of Argyll and the Dukes of Argyll. They were known for their military prowess and played significant roles in various battles and conflicts throughout Scottish history.
Notable Individuals
The surname Campbell is associated with many notable figures in Scottish history. Some of the most famous include:
- Sir Colin Campbell, 1st Baron Clyde - A British Army officer known for his service during the Crimean War and the Indian Mutiny.
- Archibald Campbell, 9th Earl of Argyll - A key figure in the Scottish Wars of the 17th century.
- Alexander Campbell - A renowned Australian explorer and politician.
Modern Day
Today, the Campbell surname is widespread not only in Scotland but also in other English-speaking countries. Many Campbells have achieved success in various fields, including politics, sports, arts, and business. The clan continues to maintain a strong sense of identity and pride in their heritage through various clan associations and gatherings.
Crest and Motto
The Campbell clan crest features a boar's head and the clan motto "Ne Obliviscaris," which is Latin for "Forget not." These symbols reflect the clan's strength, resilience, and commitment to remembering their history and traditions.
In conclusion, the Campbell surname holds a special place in Scottish history and culture as a symbol of strength, loyalty, and perseverance. The clan's legacy continues to resonate today, with many individuals proudly bearing the name and honoring their rich heritage.
There are approximately 102,581 people named Campbell in the UK. That makes it the 54th most common surname in Britain. Around 1,575 in a million people in Britain are named Campbell.
Surname type: From given name or forename
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
- Colin
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- William
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Cambell
- Camble
- Cambel
- Cambpbell
- Cambpell
- Cambpball
- Cambbell
- Capmbell
- Campbel
- Campbella
- Campbelle
- Camball
- Cambelle
- Campball
- Campbelll
- Campbells
- Campbels
- Campbelton
- Campbill
- Campble
- Campbll
- Campebll
- Campel
- Campell
- Campelli
- Campello
- Camphbell
- Camppbell
- Campwell
- Canpbell
- Cmpbell
- Compbell
- Kampbell
- Campber
- Campelo
- Champbell
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.