Carmichael is a surname of Scottish origin, meaning "follower of St. Michael." It is believed to have originated from the Gaelic words "cathair" meaning "warrior" and "macal" meaning "son of." The name Carmichael is often associated with qualities of bravery, loyalty, and strength. It has been used as a first name as well as a surname, with notable individuals such as Scottish physicist and mathematician Sir William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin, bearing the name. Overall, Carmichael is a distinguished and noble name that carries with it a sense of heritage and honor.