What does Angus mean and where does it come from?
Angus originates from the Scottish Gaelic name Aonghas. Historically, it is associated with the Gaelic god of youth and love. The name has been borne by notable figures such as Angus Young, the guitarist of AC/DC. It has remained a popular name in Scotland and among those of Scottish heritage worldw
Cultural significance
Angus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of one strength.
Peak popularity
Reached #369 in 1882 — currently #1986 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Angus?
Angus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Angus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Angus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Angus Mae
Sweet · timeless
Angus Claire
French influence · crisp
Angus Jane
Literary · strong
Angus Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Angus right now?
Falling — down 133 spots — currently #1986 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1986 | 77 | ▼ down 133 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #1853 | 86 | ▲ up 372 · +37% births |
| 2021 | #2225 | 63 | ▼ down 197 · -9% births |
| 2020 | #2028 | 69 | ▼ down 291 · -22% births |
| 2015 | #1737 | 88 | ▲ up 1 · +1% births |
| 2010 | #1738 | 87 | ▼ down 267 · -12% births |
| 2005 | #1471 | 99 | ▼ down 129 · +4% births |
| 2000 | #1342 | 95 | ▼ down 14 · +22% births |
| 1995 | #1328 | 78 | ▲ up 684 · +111% births |
| 1990 | #2012 | 37 | ▼ down 312 · +3% births |
| 1985 | #1700 | 36 | ▲ up 111 · +16% births |
| 1980 | #1811 | 31 | ▼ down 278 · -9% births |
| 1975 | #1533 | 34 | ▼ down 67 · +3% births |
| 1970 | #1466 | 33 | ▲ up 163 · +43% births |
| 1965 | #1629 | 23 | — |
The story of Angus
Angus has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 6,395 total births recorded, Angus remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #427 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1986 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Angus in 1882:
Angus by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 155 | |
| 1890s | 143 | |
| 1900s | 128 | |
| 1910s | 496 | |
| 1920s | 660 | |
| 1930s | 394 | |
| 1940s | 405 | |
| 1950s | 345 | |
| 1960s | 284 | |
| 1970s | 307 | |
| 1980s | 361 | |
| 1990s | 752 | |
| 2000s ★ | 1,042 | |
| 2010s | 854 | |
| 2020s | 69 | |
💎With 6,395 total births, Angus is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Angus?
What names sound and feel like Angus?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Angus also consider these
How is Angus written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Angus
What does the name Angus mean?
Angus means "One strength" — a name rooted in Scotland tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Angus?
Angus is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Angus?
Angus originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Angus?
Angus is a two-syllable name pronounced AE1 NG G AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Angus a common or rare name?
Angus is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.