Arnold

Arnold comes from Germanic elements associated with an eagle and power or rule. “Eagle power” is a concise explanation; “strong as an eagle” is a freer interpretation rather than a literal sentence contained in the name. Related forms include French Arnaud and Arnaldo in other European languages.

Composer Arnold Schoenberg, novelist Arnold Bennett, and historian Arnold Toynbee give the name several substantial cultural connections. Arnie is a familiar short form, also associated with actor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Arnold's history is broader than any one public figure or fictional character. Its established use in English records makes it a traditional given name as well as a name with older continental roots.