ancient German nation, originally a branch of the Suevi: who, after various migrations, settled in that part of Denmark, and duchy of Slefwick, which to this day is called Angel, and of which the city of Flensburgh is the capital. Here they were known, even in the time of Tacitus, by the name of Angli. The origin of this name is variously accounted for. According to Saxo-Grammaticus, they were called Angli, from one Angulus, son to Humblus king of Denmark. Widsifund, a Saxon writer, will have them to be called Angli, from an island in the corner or angle of the sea, which they conquered. Goropius derives their name from the Saxon word Angel or Engel, signifying a fishhook; the Angles, like the other Saxon nations, being greatly addicted to piracy, and on that account being so named by the neighbouring nations; as if, like hooks, they caught all that was in the sea. To this nation the British ambassadors are said to have applied, when soliciting succours against the Scots and Picts. The Angles, therefore, came over in greater numbers than any other Saxon nation; and accordingly had the honour of giving the name of Anglia to England. See England.