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.
The name Agnew experienced a dip in popularity between 1912 and 1924, with only five births recorded in both 1923 and 1924 combined, compared to seven births each in 1912 and 1921. However, there was a resurgence in its usage after three decades, with six births recorded in 1946 and five more in 1953. Overall, the name Agnew has seen a total of thirty-five births over this period.