Meaning & History
Arendsen is a Dutch patronymic surname meaning "son of Arend." The name Arend is itself a Dutch and German short form of Arnold, which derives from the Germanic elements arn "eagle" and walt "power, authority," giving the meaning "eagle power." The surname Arendsen is thus linked to the eagle, a symbol of strength and majesty. Patronymic surnames are common in the Netherlands. Related Dutch patronymic surnames include Arends (removing the patronymic suffix -sen), Aartsen, and Aerssens. In other Germanic regions, analogous names include the German form Arnold itself, the Flemish version Aerts, and the Frisian name Aartsma.
The name Arnold was introduced to England by the Normans and replaced the Old English cognate Earnweald. Though it died out as a given name after the Middle Ages, it was revived in the 19th century. Notable bearers of the root name include Arnold of Brescia, a 12th-century monk who opposed the Church, and modern figures like golfer Arnold Palmer and actor-politician Arnold Schwarzenegger. As a surname, Arendsen is most common in the Netherlands, reflecting Dutch naming traditions.
- Meaning: son of Arend (eagle power)
- Origin: Germanic
- Type: patronymic surname
- Usage regions: Netherlands