ancient German nation, originally a branch of the Suevi; who, after various migrations, settled in that part of Denmark, and duchy of Sleswick, of which the city of Flensborg 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 of Humblus king of Denmark. Goropius derives their name from the Saxon word Angel or Engel, signifying a fish-hook; 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.