Magnussen History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

• Origins Available:
• Denmark
• England
• Germany
• Norway
• Scotland
• Sweden

Etymology of Magnussen

The origin of the distinguished Magnussen family can be traced to the historic Scandinavian country of Sweden. The surname Magnussen is derived from the Scandianavian personal name Magnús. This name was borne by several kings of Norway, the first of whom was Magnus the Good (1024-1047). He was named after Charlemagne, whose name was rendered Carolus Magnus in Latin. The popularity of this name in Norway was increased by the exploits of Earl Magnus Erlendsson of Orkney, who was treacherously executed by his cousin in 1117 and became known as St. Magnus. From Norway, the name spread into the royal houses of eastern Scandinavia, and it subsequently became popular throughout that region. The suffix -sson and its variants are translatable as son of.