Agnew is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic surname MacAonghusa, which means "son of Aonghus." Aonghus is a variant spelling of the Irish name Óenghus, meaning "one strength" or "unity."
The name Agnew first appeared as a surname in Scotland during the medieval period. It was often associated with families from the Scottish Highlands and Hebrides islands. Over time, it evolved into a given name used for boys.
In Scotland, the Clan MacAonghusa is considered one of the oldest highland clans, tracing its roots back to the 13th century. The clan's original territory was in the Isle of Mull, but they later migrated to the mainland and settled in various parts of Scotland.
The name Agnew has been carried by notable individuals throughout history. One famous bearer is Sir Richard Agnew (1602-1674), a Scottish soldier and politician who fought against Cromwell's forces during the English Civil War. Another notable figure is Thomas P. Agnew Jr. (1848-1910), an American art dealer who founded the renowned Agnew's Galleries in London.
Today, Agnew remains a relatively uncommon given name, but it continues to be used by families who appreciate its unique sound and Scottish heritage. It offers parents looking for an distinctive yet meaningful name for their child an excellent choice.
Statistics on the given name Agnew show a varied trend over the years in the United States. Here's an analysis of the provided data:
In the early 20th century, the name Agnew had a modest start with seven births each year between 1912 and 1921. However, this number dropped to five births both in 1923 and 1924, indicating a decrease in popularity during that period.
There was a resurgence in the mid-20th century, with six births in 1946, showing a revival of interest in the name Agnew. This trend continued into the late 1950s, with five births recorded in 1953.
Overall, from 1912 to 1953, there were a total of 35 births registered with the name Agnew in the United States. This demonstrates that while it may not have been one of the most popular names during these years, it did maintain a consistent presence within the naming landscape.