Campbells

Campbells is a plural form used primarily as a surname and, less commonly, as a descriptor for things related to families bearing that name. The name is of Scottish origin and derives from the Gaelic name Caimbeul (often rendered Campbell in English), commonly interpreted as meaning “crooked mouth.” Over the centuries, people with the surname Campbell dispersed widely, particularly to Ireland, England, and North America, where the name remains common.

Clan Campbell refers to a historic Scottish highland clan, one of the largest and most influential in the country. Based in Argyll, the clan played a central role in medieval and early modern Scottish affairs and was closely connected with the Crown at various periods. The Campbells held significant political and military power, and their influence extended into the governance of Scotland and beyond. Inveraray Castle is traditionally associated with the Campbell clan as a seat of the Dukes of Argyll.

Geographically, Campbells appears in the names of places and localities in English-speaking regions, typically originating from landholders or early settlers bearing the Campbell surname. In addition to toponyms, the term appears in corporate and organizational names that reflect family or founder associations with Campbell ancestry.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Campbell encompass a wide range of public figures across politics, science, arts, sports, and entertainment, reflecting the widespread distribution of the name. The term Campbells thus may refer to families, historical groups, or place names linked by lineage or memory of people named Campbell.

See also: Campbell (surname), Clan Campbell, Campbell’s (brand) (note: Campbell’s is a brand name with a different spelling).