Arnaud is the French form of Arnold, a Germanic name meaning "eagle power", derived from the elements arn "eagle" and walt "power, authority". The name was introduced to France by the Normans, who brought it from their Germanic roots. In French, the name evolved into Arnaud (and its variant Arnault), becoming a common given name particularly in the Occitan region. Etymology and History The Germanic elements arn (eagle) and wald (power) combine to convey strength and nobility, qualities associated with the eagle as a symbol of power. The name was borne by several saints, including an 8th-century musician in the court of Charlemagne and an 11th-century French bishop who is the patron saint of brewers. The Normans spread the name across Europe, and in France it took the form Arnaud, replacing the Old Frankish cognate. Notable Bearers Many historical and modern figures have borne the name Arnaud. Among them is Arnaud Amalric (died 1225), a Cistercian monk involved with the Inquisition, famously quoted as saying "Kill them all, God will know his own." Arnaud Beltrame (1973–2018) was a French gendarme who swapped himself for a hostage during a terrorist attack and was killed, becoming a national hero. Other notable bearers include Arnaud Assoumani (born 1985), a French long jumper and Paralympic medalist, and Arnaud Berquin (1747–1791), a French author of children's literature. The name also appears in the noble family of Arnaud Amanieu, Lord of Albret (1338–1401). Cultural Significance Arnaud remains a popular given name in France and French-speaking regions, often associated with strength and tradition. It has variant forms in other languages, such as Arnau in Catalan, Arnoud and Arnout in Dutch, and Aart and Arend as Dutch short forms. The feminine form Arnaude is also used in French. Meaning: Eagle power Origin: Germanic, via French Type: Given name Usage regions: France, French-speaking countries