Eutropius (A.D. 360), 'Breviarium,' x. 21.
By the analogy of Saxon and of Lombard (Lango-bardi = "Long-spears"), this seems the most probable original derivation of the name. In later ages it was, doubtless, supposed to have to do with frank = free. The franca is described by Procopius ('De Bell. Goth.' ii. 25.), and figures in the Song of Maldon.
See Florence of Worcester (A.D. 1138); also the Song of Beowulf.