Angus Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationAN-gus / ˈæŋɡəsScottish; Gaelic
Meaning
Scottish: One choice; Gaelic: A measure of strength
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Angus has its roots in the Gaelic language, deriving from the Old Irish name "Aonghus," which is composed of the elements "aon" meaning "one" or "unique" and "gus" meaning "strength" or "vigor." This etymological foundation reflects a sense of singular strength or uniqueness. The name transitioned into Scottish Gaelic as "Aonghas," before being adopted into English, where it has been used since the Middle Ages. The earliest recorded use of the name in Scotland dates back to the 9th century, associated with the Pictish king Angus mac Fergus, who ruled during this period, thus embedding the name within the historical narrative of Scottish royalty.
A significant historical milestone associated with the name Angus is its connection to Saint Angus, a 7th-century figure who is venerated in both Scottish and Irish traditions. He is often recognized for his role in the spread of Christianity in the region, and his feast day is celebrated on the 11th of January. The name also appears in various historical texts and genealogies, including the "Annals of the Four Masters," which document the lineage of notable figures in early medieval Ireland and Scotland.
Culturally, the name Angus has been associated with strength and leadership, resonating with various legends and folklore throughout Scottish history. It has been used in literature and poetry, often symbolizing noble qualities. The name is also linked to the Angus breed of cattle, which is renowned for its quality and strength, further reinforcing the name's connotations of vigor. A diminutive form, "Gus," has emerged in various contexts, though it is less frequently used in historical texts. Overall, Angus carries a rich legacy that intertwines linguistic roots, historical significance, and cultural resonance.
Trend Summary
Angus has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Aonghas
- Aongus
International Variants
- Angus (English)
- Aonghas (Irish)
Famous people named Angus
Angus Young is a musician best known for being the co-founder and lead guitarist of AC/DC.
Angus T. Jones is an actor best known for his role as Jake Harper on Two and a Half Men.
Angus Macfadyen is an actor best known for his roles in Braveheart, Equilibrium, and the TV series Spooks.
Angus Deaton is an economist best known for his work on poverty, consumption, and welfare economics.
Fictional characters named Angus
Angus MacGyver is a fictional character from the TV series MacGyver. He is a resourceful secret agent known for his ability to solve problems using everyday materials.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Angus was first seen in the United States in 1880. Angus has ranked as high as #1257 nationally, which occurred in 2006, and has been most popular in California, New York, Texas, Washington, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Angus has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Angus (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 6 | |
VA | 6 | |
NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 17 |
1881 | 9 |
1882 | 24 |
1883 | 17 |
1884 | 15 |
1885 | 14 |
1886 | 15 |
1887 | 16 |
1888 | 14 |
1889 | 14 |
1890 | 21 |
1891 | 11 |
1892 | 14 |
1893 | 10 |
1894 | 13 |
1895 | 15 |
1896 | 14 |
1897 | 15 |
1898 | 13 |
1899 | 17 |
1900 | 14 |
1901 | 9 |
1902 | 15 |
1903 | 13 |
1904 | 17 |
1905 | 11 |
1906 | 11 |
1907 | 11 |
1908 | 7 |
1909 | 20 |
1910 | 20 |
1911 | 23 |
1912 | 28 |
1913 | 38 |
1914 | 59 |
1915 | 72 |
1916 | 63 |
1917 | 54 |
1918 | 67 |
1919 | 72 |
1920 | 61 |
1921 | 69 |
1922 | 68 |
1923 | 72 |
1924 | 61 |
1925 | 63 |
1926 | 88 |
1927 | 69 |
1928 | 64 |
1929 | 45 |
1930 | 46 |
1931 | 52 |
1932 | 40 |
1933 | 37 |
1934 | 45 |
1935 | 31 |
1936 | 32 |
1937 | 38 |
1938 | 40 |
1939 | 33 |
1940 | 41 |
1941 | 41 |
1942 | 37 |
1943 | 43 |
1944 | 34 |
1945 | 42 |
1946 | 41 |
1947 | 36 |
1948 | 50 |
1949 | 40 |
1950 | 37 |
1951 | 32 |
1952 | 36 |
1953 | 34 |
1954 | 39 |
1955 | 39 |
1956 | 34 |
1957 | 34 |
1958 | 22 |
1959 | 38 |
1960 | 34 |
1961 | 27 |
1962 | 25 |
1963 | 37 |
1964 | 30 |
1965 | 23 |
1966 | 24 |
1967 | 34 |
1968 | 20 |
1969 | 30 |
1970 | 33 |
1971 | 35 |
1972 | 31 |
1973 | 28 |
1974 | 30 |
1975 | 34 |
1976 | 27 |
1977 | 28 |
1978 | 28 |
1979 | 33 |
1980 | 31 |
1981 | 38 |
1982 | 32 |
1983 | 37 |
1984 | 31 |
1985 | 36 |
1986 | 34 |
1987 | 37 |
1988 | 37 |
1989 | 47 |
1990 | 37 |
1991 | 61 |
1992 | 56 |
1993 | 62 |
1994 | 71 |
1995 | 78 |
1996 | 106 |
1997 | 92 |
1998 | 96 |
1999 | 95 |
2000 | 95 |
2001 | 119 |
2002 | 83 |
2003 | 109 |
2004 | 102 |
2005 | 99 |
2006 | 126 |
2007 | 106 |
2008 | 91 |
2009 | 112 |
2010 | 87 |
2011 | 68 |
2012 | 84 |
2013 | 82 |
2014 | 108 |
2015 | 88 |
2016 | 76 |
2017 | 95 |
2018 | 84 |
2019 | 84 |
2020 | 69 |
2021 | 63 |
2022 | 86 |
2023 | 77 |
2024 | 68 |