Surname MacElhargy - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'M'
MacElhargy: What does the surname MacElhargy mean?
The surname MacElhargy is of Irish origin and dates back to the seventh century. It is derived from the Irish Mac Giolla airgid, meaning "son of the devotee of silver". The name was originally given to those who were steeped in the affluence of the time and belonged to an affluent family. This was a title of respect in Ireland for the role of the wealthy among society who had a higher status in the community.
The family of MacElhargy was very influential, and had a strong presence among the ruling clans of the area, as reflected by the numerous historical records of this name. It is believed that they were merchants, traders and merchants of silver that travelled throughout Ireland and Scotland and beyond. They would have had a large and successful payroll, no doubt supported by their wealth and their reputation as a family of great influence.
Throughout their history, the MacElhargy family have held prominent positions in society, including the roles of Lord of Formoyle and the Baron of Shankill. Members of the family have also held important positions within the British army, both in the Officer Corps and with the Royal Irish Fusiliers.
The MacElhargy surname carries an air of respect and prestige that continues to this day. Denoted by its richness, it carries an air of nobility, of honour and of privilege. The name is proud and distinctive, and will remain an integral part of the story of MacElhargy families throughout the ages.
Order DNA origin analysisMacElhargy: Where does the name MacElhargy come from?
The surname MacElhargy is most commonly found today in Ireland. Although it is not a very common name, it is believed to have been used in Ireland since medieval times. According to family history records, the family is believed to have descended from a 10th century Irish chieftain, Niall Mac Elhargy. The name today is derived from the Gaelic "Mac Giolla Earchain," which means "son of the follower of St. Erchan."
The surname is commonly found in Ulster. There are numerous records which list people bearing the name MacElhargy as living in County Antrim, Londonderry, and Donegal. Records also indicate that there were several families bearing the name in County Tyrone, including Ballinascreen and Clonoe.
Today, there are many people in Ireland and around the world who still bear the name MacElhargy. It is most common in the Irish-American community, where it is often spelled McElhargy or McElhargy. This version of the name is particularly prevalent in areas of Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland.
There are also clusters of people bearing the name in the United Kingdom, particularly in Northern Ireland. There may also be some in Australia and New Zealand, as both countries host large Irish-Australian and Irish-New Zealand communities.
Overall, the surname MacElhargy is generally rare and highly localized. It is most prominent in the Irish-American realm, followed by Ireland itself. It is possible that more people bearing the name can be found in other countries, particularly those with a large Irish presence.
Variations of the surname MacElhargy
The surname MacElhargy is derived from the Gaelic Mac Giolla Chainnigh, which means “Son of the devotee of St. Cianan”. This surname has several variants, spellings, and surnames with the same origin.
Variants of MacElhargy include MacElehargy, Mac Eileargaidh, MacElroi, MacEldowey, and MacEldraught.
The spelling MacElhargy can also be spelt as MacElherigey, MacElhargey, MacElhorghey, MacElrogy, MacElhergy, and MacElraggy.
Surnames of the same origin as MacElhargy include MacElehane, MacCaneeny, MacLarnon, MacLener, MacCann, MacConnely, MacCartin, MacBlanery, MacAnally, MacConnellon, and MacCellaigh.
Most of these variants, spellings, and surnames derive from the County of Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, but may also have connections to other parts of the British Isles. The surname is most common in Northern Ireland but can also be found in the United States and Canada.
The name itself is associated with Irish identity and is still commonly used in Northern Ireland today. MacElhargy is relatively rare and those bearing the name are likely to be descended from a line of ancestors who settled in the same location.
Famous people with the name MacElhargy
- Hugh MacElhargy: a Northern Irish politician and former lawyer
- Oscar C. MacElhargy: a former Major in the United States Army
- Molly MacElhargy: a British actress whose most notable roles include Guido Falcone in The Fades
- Kevin MacElhargy: a retired professional ice hockey player from Canada
- John MacElhargy: an Irish musician and ceili dancer best known for his fiddle music
- Julie MacElhargy: an American former swimmer who appeared in the 1964 Olympics
- Patrick MacElhargy: a Scottish-born, U.S.-based artist and sculptor
- Patrick M. MacElhargy: a senior executive in the aerospace industry and a retired US Air Force officer
- Phillip MacElhargy: an American-born former soccer player who won 11 caps for the Republic of Ireland
- Amanda MacElhargy: an Australian author and journalist who is known for writing about the impact of technology in society