Norman

Norman may refer to several related but distinct topics, most prominently the medieval people and the language associated with the region of Normandy in northern France.

The Normans were descendants of Norse (Viking) settlers who established themselves in the area of Normandy during the early Middle Ages, intermarrying with Frankish populations and forming a distinct culture. They established the Duchy of Normandy and, in 1066, under William the Conqueror, led the Norman conquest of England. The resulting Anglo-Norman realm helped to shape the English language, law, governance, and architecture, with the Romanesque style leaving a lasting architectural legacy across parts of Europe.

Norman is also a given name and a surname. It derives from the Old French norman or normand, meaning “Norseman,” and became common in English-speaking regions. Notable bearers include Norman Rockwell, an American painter and illustrator; Norman Mailer, an American novelist and journalist; and Norman Foster, a British architect. The name remains in use in many countries.

Linguistically, the Norman language refers to the Romance language spoken in Normandy, part of the Oïl language group. Historically it included varieties such as Anglo-Norman, which spread to England after the conquest, contributing to the development of English vocabulary and legal terms.

Geographically, the name Norman is used for several places. The city of Norman, Oklahoma, is a prominent example, home to the University of Oklahoma. Norman County is a county in Minnesota. The toponym appears in other locales as well, reflecting the historical influence of Norman culture and people.