Surname Campbell - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'C'
Unraveling the Roots of Campbell: An in-depth Review of the iGENEA DNA Test
This review of the iGENEA DNA test unveils the fascinating journey of discovering the deep roots of the surname "Campbell." It talks about the Scottish connections, the ancestral pathways, and the global connections formed with fellow Campbells via the DNA database for an immersive genealogical experience.
O. Campbell
read moreCampbell: What does the surname Campbell mean?
The meaning of the last name Campbell is derived from the Scottish Gaelic form ‘Cam Beul’ which quite literally translates as ‘crooked or bent mouth’. Over the centuries, this has come to refer to the gentlemens behavior, when talking to others. As a result, the name can be an indicator of being tactful, diplomatic and persuasive.
It is also thought that the origin of the Campbell surname, may derive from a Clan amongst the Scots, and they were commonly given the name, hence where it may have come from. The Clan resided in the Argyll and Bute districts of Scotland, and at one time were the most powerful and feared in the Highlands. They were initially famous for their bravery in battle, and during the Wars of the Scottish Succession and the Jacobite Risings, their prowess became legendary.
Now, the name Campbell is a common surname throughout many parts of the world - it’s even spread across the country here in the U.S. Many who carry the name today, can trace their Campbell origins to Scotland, but it’s also possible that those with the surname, bear it by a completely unrelated means – such as being given the name by adoption or marriage.
Ultimately, whatever your view on the origins Campbell surname, it has always been viewed as being positive in its meaning and behavior. It is seen as an honor to those who bear the mantle of the name, and the traits associated with it continue to act as a point of pride for many.
Order DNA origin analysisCampbell: Where does the name Campbell come from?
The last name Campbell is pervasive throughout the world today, with the majority of individuals bearing the name living in English-speaking countries. The United States boasts the greatest population of Campbells by far, with over 868,000 people in the 2020 census. It is the 43rd most common surname in the country, with the most individuals living in Georgia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania.
The second largest group of Campbells live in the United Kingdom, with over 202,000 individuals. Here, the last name is the 12th most common, having risen eight places in the rankings from 2015-2019. The majority of these individuals live in England, though Scotland and Wales also have a sizeable Campbell presence.
The last name Campbell can also be found in relatively large numbers in Australia (over 98,000), Canada (over 48,500), South Africa (over 8,300), and New Zealand (over 6,150).
Campbells are scattered all over the world, though the prevalence of the name differs significantly from country to country. No matter where one encounters a Campbell, it can be sure that the group owes its origin to the Clan Campbell of Scotland.
Variations of the surname Campbell
The surname Campbell is an ancient Scottish name derived from the Gaelic tradition. The name comes from the Gaelic term "cam beul", which means "crooked mouth". The surname is shared by numerous different families of Scottish descent, all of which are descended from the ancient Clan Campbell.
Variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin for Campbell include Cambell, Cammell, Cammel, Camble, Camblet, Camblett, Cambletten, Camblin, Camel, Camill, Camille, Cammaill, Cammile, Cammill, Cammyll, Campal, Campall, Camel, Kammelen, Kammeline, Kamelia, Kamelot, Kammell, Kamole, and Kammille. Other variations include Campbell-Dunn, Campbell-Fergusson, MacCampbell, McConnell, MacConnochie, MacConwell, Macaulay, MacAulay, and MacAlister.
Campbells are renowned throughout Scottish history, primarily due to the contributions to society made by its numerous clan members. Notable Campbells include the famous composer and musician John Campbell, the 19th-century politician and soldier Colin Campbell, former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, and the actor and director Neil Campbell.
In addition, many individuals who do not share an ancestral link to the Campbells have taken the name as a surname. They include historical figures such as the author of the novel ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’, Alexandre Dumas, and the American baseball player Vince Coleman.
Therefore, the various spellings, surnames and variants of the surname Campbell are reflective of its widespread popularity throughout Scottish heritage and history.
Famous people with the name Campbell
- Naomi Campbell: one of the world's most iconic supermodels, Naomi Campbell is internationally renowned for her unparalleled beauty and iconic status.
- Ashley Campbell: daughter of country legend Glen Campbell, Ashley has found her own success as a singer-songwriter and recording artist.
- Billy Campbell: an American actor best known for his roles in The Rocketeer, The Killing, and Once and Again.
- Glen Campbell: American singer-songwriter and guitarist who had a string of hit songs in the 1960s and 70s, including “Gentle on My Mind” and “Wichita Lineman.”
- Neve Campbell: Canadian actress who rose to stardom with the popular teen drama series “Party of Five” and has since starred in films like “Scream,” “The Craft,” and “Wild Things.”
- Kim Campbell: former Prime Minister of Canada, who served from June 1993: November 1993.
- Anna Campbell: Australian fashion designer whose eponymous label includes luxe wedding gowns and evening wear.
- R. Holman Campbell: Canadian politician and administrator who served as the 11th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia from 1960: 1968.
- Wes Campbell: NFL defensive end who played for the Houston Oilers from 1986: 1992.
- Mya Campbell: American YouTuber and makeup artist best known for her tutorial videos.