Campbell is a Scottish surname and given name that originates from the Gaelic word "cam" meaning "crooked" or "bent", combined with the word "beul" which means "mouth". Therefore, Campbell translates to "crooked mouth".
The name has been associated with Clan Campbell, one of the most powerful clans in Scotland's history. The clan originated from Argyllshire and was led by the Duke of Argyll. They played a significant role in Scottish politics and warfare throughout the Middle Ages.
In Scotland, the surname Campbell is quite common, ranking among the top 20 most popular surnames. It has also gained popularity as a given name, particularly for boys, both in Scotland and internationally.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Campbell. Some of these include Scottish poet James Graham, Lord Lyon King of Arms Sir Thomas Innes of Learney, and American businessman and philanthropist Gordon A. Campbell. This illustrates how the name has transcended borders and centuries, reflecting its rich heritage and enduring appeal.
In terms of its spelling, Campbell is typically written with two "l"s and one "p", although variations such as "Camelbell" or "Cambell" can also be found. Despite these minor differences in spelling, all forms of the name share a common origin and meaning.
In conclusion, Campbell is a surname and given name of Scottish origin that translates to "crooked mouth". It is strongly associated with Clan Campbell and has been borne by many notable individuals throughout history. Its enduring popularity reflects its rich heritage and appealing sound.
The name Campbell experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years. From 1881 to 1972, there were relatively few births with this name each year, ranging from 5 to 25. However, starting in 1973, there was a notable increase, with numbers varying between 5 and 214 per year up until 2023. The total number of Campbell births during this period is 5625.