Amundsen (surname)

Amundsen is a Norwegian surname meaning "son of Amund." Amund is an Old Norse given name derived from the elements ǫrn (eagle) and mundr (protector, hand). Thus, the name Amundsen literally translates to "son of eagle protector" or "son of eagle hand."

The surname is common in Norway and among people of Norwegian descent. It is most famously associated with Roald Amundsen, the Norwegian explorer of polar regions.

Distribution of the surname is primarily found in Norway, as well as other countries with significant Norwegian diaspora populations, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Notable people with the surname Amundsen include:

• Roald Amundsen (1872–1928): Norwegian explorer of polar regions. He led the first expedition to reach the South Pole (1911) and navigated the Northwest Passage.
• Other individuals: Numerous other individuals bear the surname Amundsen, primarily residing in Norway and diaspora communities, contributing to various fields.