Arnold

Arnold is a masculine given name and surname of Germanic origin. It derives from the Old High German name Arnwald, formed from elements meaning eagle and ruler or power. The name has many cognates and variants in other languages, including Arnaud (French), Arnaldo (Spanish, Italian, Portuguese), and the English form Arnold. In English usage, diminutives such as Arnie or Arny are common.

Historically used in German-speaking areas, Arnold gained broader usage in English-speaking countries in the 19th and 20th centuries and remains in use today, though less common for newborns than in the past. As both a given name and a surname, it appears in many cultures and can function as a patronymic in families.

Notable people with the given name include Arnold Palmer, an American professional golfer known for his early influence on the sport; Arnold Schwarzenegger, an Austrian-born actor and former governor of California; and Arnold Schoenberg, an Austrian-born composer who helped pioneer atonality in the 20th century. The surname Arnold is widespread in English-speaking countries; notable bearers include Tom Arnold, an American actor and comedian. There are also places named Arnold in various countries, including towns in the United States and the United Kingdom.