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Arnett
How to Pronounce Arnett
Pronounced AR-net /ΛΙr.nΙt/Medium
Meaning: Arnett is an English surname derived either as a pet form of Arnold (Germanic arn, 'eagle', + wald, 'power, ruler') or from Norman French arnet, 'little eagle'. It moved into first-name use in America, often honoring a family surname.Low
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Arnett is a surname taken either from a diminutive of Arnold β Germanic arn, 'eagle', plus wald, 'ruler' β or from Norman French for 'little eagle'. Like many surnames it became an American given name, carried by families keeping a maiden name alive.
It saw quiet use as a surname-name, peaking faintly around 1951 and fading thereafter. It was never common β only a few dozen boys a year at most.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Arnett mean?
Arnett is a surname from a diminutive of Arnold ('eagle power') or Norman French for 'little eagle'.
How do you pronounce Arnett?
It's said AR-net /ΛΙr.nΙt/ β two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Arnett a boy or girl name?
Arnett is used as a boy's name, a surname turned first name.
How popular is Arnett?
Arnett has always been rare in the U.S., a surname-name most seen around the mid-twentieth century.