Origin and Meaning of Athol

Meaning & Origin

Mouth of the river

Origin: Scottish Gaelic - Derived from the Scottish Gaelic word 'Ath', meaning 'ford' or 'river crossing', and 'oll', meaning 'great' or 'big'.

Interesting Facts

  • Athol is a name with deep roots in Scottish culture, originally used as a surname before being adopted as a given name.
  • The name has been associated with the region of Atholl in Scotland, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and historic sites.
  • Notable figures with the name include Athol Fugard, a prominent South African playwright and director known for his activism against apartheid.
  • Athol is relatively uncommon as a first name, often seen in the UK and among communities with Scottish heritage.
  • Variations of the name may include Atholl and can sometimes be found in compound names such as Atholwyn.