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Last Name Arnot

What is the origin of the last name Arnot?

The last name Arnot is of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Old Gaelic personal name "Arnott," which is believed to be a diminutive of the Norman personal name "Arnold," meaning "eagle power." The surname Arnot is mainly found in Scotland and is also common in England and Ireland. It is a relatively rare surname but has a long history and is associated with various historical figures and families in Scotland.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Arnot

The meaning and origin of the last name Arnot

The surname Arnot is of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name Arnótr, meaning "eagle" or "strong eagle." It first appeared in Scotland in the 12th century, brought over by Norman settlers. The name may have been used to describe someone strong or fierce like an eagle, or it could have been given to someone who had an association with eagles or a place where eagles were found. Over time, the name Arnot became a hereditary surname passed down from generation to generation. Today, individuals with the surname Arnot can be found in various parts of the world, particularly in Scotland and other English-speaking countries. The name reflects a link to Scotland's Norse heritage and the natural world, symbolizing strength, power, and freedom.

Geographical distribution of the last name Arnot

The last name Arnot is relatively rare and is most commonly found in Scotland and England. In Scotland, it is particularly prevalent in the regions of Fife and Kinross-shire. Andrew de Harleton, also known as Arnot, was the first recorded bearer of the name in Scotland in the 13th century. The name Arnot can also be found in England, especially in the counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Throughout history, individuals with the surname Arnot have been involved in various occupations, including farming, mining, and church ministry. While the distribution of the Arnot name is more concentrated in these areas, descendants of the Arnot family can now be found in other countries as well, due to migration and globalization.

Variants and spellings of the last name Arnot

Variations and spellings of the last name Arnot include Arnott, Arnit, Arnett, Arnett, Arnotte, Art, and Arthurs. These variations may have originated from different regions or countries where the name was anglicized or influenced by local dialects. The surname Arnot is of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Norse personal name 'Arnauðr', meaning 'eagle' or 'power'. Over time, variations in spelling and pronunciation have emerged due to factors such as immigration, phonetic interpretation, and transcription errors. Despite the different forms of the name, they all ultimately trace back to the same Scottish ancestry. Families with the last name Arnot can be found in various parts of the world, with each spelling serving as a unique identifier of their heritage and lineage.

Famous people with the last name Arnot

One famous person with the last name Arnot is Dr. Walter Thomas Arnot, a renowned Scottish missionary and author who travelled to China and Tibet in the 19th century to spread Christianity and provide medical care to the local populations. Another notable Arnot is William Arnot, a 19th century Scottish preacher and theologian known for his insightful sermons and religious writings. Additionally, there is Linda Arnot, a Canadian actress and model who appeared in various television shows and films in the 1980s. The Arnot name is associated with individuals who have made significant contributions in fields such as medicine, religion, and entertainment, leaving a lasting impact on society through their work and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Arnot

The last name Arnot is of Scottish origin, and is derived from the Old Norse personal name "Arnautr," which means eagle power. The Arnot family history can be traced back to the medieval period of Scotland, with records showing Sir Michael de Arnot as one of the earliest known bearers of the surname in the 12th century. Over the centuries, the Arnot family has been associated with various regions in Scotland, including Fife, where they held lands and had notable members who served in positions of power and influence. The name Arnot has also spread to other parts of the world through migration and has been found in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United States. Today, individuals with the surname Arnot can be found across the globe, carrying on the legacy of their Scottish ancestors.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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