Origin and meaning of the name

The name Aengus is steeped in Irish and Scottish mythology and history, bearing a distinctive and powerful meaning. Derived from the Old Irish name “Óengus”, Aengus translates to “one strength” or “unique strength”. The name evokes a sense of power, individuality, and mythological resonance.

The Aengus name has a lot of history behind it. The name originated in Scotland back in 1296, and there are several variations to the spelling of the name. For example, it is sometimes spelled as Anguish, Angos or English.

The meaning of Aengus is “exceptional strength” and it is based on the God of love, who is often described as having several birds flying around his head as a symbol of the love he inspires in others.

The Angus family was involved in the great migration, during which many Scots fled to Australia and America to avoid persecution. Traveling across the Atlantic proved challenging, and not everyone survived.

Popularity of Aengus

While Aengus is not a widely common name, it holds a special place in Irish and Scottish heritage. Its mythological connections and strong meaning make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a name with depth and historical significance. In recent years, the name has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially among those who appreciate its cultural richness.

The name Aengus reached the height of its popularity in the 1800s, after which it took a steep decline. Today, the name is not even listed as one of the top 100 baby names in Scotland.

Famous People Bearing the Name

Though rare, several notable individuals have borne the name Aengus, contributing to its recognition and prestige. Some of these include:

• Aengus Mac Grianna, is an Irish journalist and newsreader known for his work with RTÉ News.
• Aengus Fanning, a prominent Irish journalist and editor who made significant contributions to Irish media.
• Angus Young – Guitarist
• Angus Macfadyen – Actor
• Angus Deayton – Game Show Host

Useful Resources

Discover the meaning and popularity of other Scottish names on this website