Last Name Agnew

The last name "Agnew" is believed to have originated in Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Aonghuis," meaning "son of Angus." The name "Angus" itself traces back to the Scottish Gaelic name "Aonghas," which means "one choice" or "exceptional." The Agnews were originally a powerful clan in Scotland, and their notable presence can be found in regions like Galloway and Ayrshire. They played an active role in Scottish history, particularly during the medieval period and the turbulent times of clan warfare. Over time, variations of the surname emerged, including Agnewe, Agnaue, and Agnewe. Today, descendants of the Agnew clan can be found worldwide, particularly in countries with Scottish immigration such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Agnew

The surname Agnew has its origins in Scotland and is derived from the Gaelic name "Ó Gníomh" which means "descendant of Gnimh." The name "Gnimh" has several possible meanings, including "strength" or "valor." The Agnew family is believed to have settled in the region of Dumfries and Galloway in southwestern Scotland, near the Anglo-Scottish border. They were of Norman origin and held land in the area during the 12th century. The earliest recorded mention of the name Agnew can be traced back to Sir Andrew Agnew, who served as the High Sheriff of Galloway in the early 13th century. The Agnew clan became a prominent family in the region, and their name gradually spread throughout Scotland and beyond. Today, individuals with the surname Agnew can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to migration and colonization.

Geographical distribution of the last name Agnew

The last name Agnew is primarily found in the United Kingdom and Ireland. In the UK, it is most commonly found in Northern Ireland and Scotland, particularly in counties such as Antrim, Down, and Fermanagh. The Agnew surname can also be found in other regions of the UK, including England, Wales, and the Isle of Man. In Ireland, it is most prevalent in the province of Ulster. Outside of the British Isles, the Agnew surname can be found in other parts of the world due to migration and diaspora. Significant populations of individuals with the last name Agnew can be found in countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. These countries received a significant influx of Scottish and Irish immigrants in the past, which could explain the presence of Agnew families in these areas. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Agnew surname reflects the historical migration patterns of people from the British Isles.

Variants and spellings of the last name Agnew

The last name Agnew has several variations and spellings, showcasing the diverse ways it has been adapted throughout history. One common variant is Agneau, which reflects a French influence and adds a touch of elegance to the name. Another version of the surname is Agneta, which has its roots in Italy, hinting at Italian ancestry. Additionally, the name can be spelled as Egnaw, Aigneau, or Egnew, each demonstrating the various ways the pronunciation can be converted into written form. These variations and spellings highlight the flexibility and adaptability of the Agnew surname, offering individuals the opportunity to display their heritage and roots in different regions and cultures. Whether it is Agneau, Agneta, Egnaw, Aigneau, or Egnew, the last name Agnew in any form acts as a bridge between generations, connecting individuals to their ancestral heritage and providing a sense of identity and belonging.

Famous people with the last name Agnew

Spiro Agnew was a well-known American politician who served as the 39th Vice President of the United States under President Richard Nixon from 1969 to 1973. Born in 1918, Agnew rose to prominence as the Governor of Maryland before becoming Nixon's running mate. However, his political career came to an abrupt end when he resigned amidst a corruption scandal in 1973. Apart from politics, another notable person with the last name Agnew is Thomas Agnew, an influential British art dealer and publisher in the 19th century. Establishing his famous gallery, Thomas Agnew & Sons, in Manchester, England, in 1817, he played a crucial role in promoting the works of esteemed artists such as J.M.W. Turner and Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema. Today, the name Agnew continues to be associated with these prominent figures in both American politics and the art world.

Genealogical research on the last name Agnew

The surname Agnew is of Scottish origin and has an interesting genealogical history. Derived from the Old Norse name "Ágæi," meaning "sting," it is believed that the Agnew clan arrived in Scotland with the influx of Norse invaders during the 9th century. Initially settled in Galloway in southwestern Scotland, the Agnews established themselves as a prominent family in the region. Over the years, they expanded their influence, acquiring lands and titles, and becoming involved in various political and military affairs. Notably, they played a significant role in the Wars of Scottish Independence, with Sir Andrew Agnew of Lochnaw serving as a loyal supporter of Robert the Bruce. Various branches of the Agnew family can be found throughout Scotland, Ireland, and other parts of the world, with notable figures emerging in various fields, including politics, the military, and the arts. Today, the Agnew surname continues to carry its rich history and legacy.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Agnew"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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