Surname MacElmeel - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'M'
MacElmeel: What does the surname MacElmeel mean?
The last name MacElmeel is of Irish origin although its exact meaning is not clear because it’s not a common surname. In Irish surnames, "Mac" typically means "son of". Elmeel might not have any known interpretations due to lack of references. Most likely, it could have originated from a specific geographical location, occupation, or a unique characteristic of the family line. It is also plausible that it has been subject to spelling variations or modifications over the centuries, thus making it harder to trace its precise meaning. The surname can also be found in different spellings such as McElmeel or MacElmeil. The exact interpretation requires extensive genealogical research as well as a deep understanding of ancient Irish etymology or dialect. However, it's generally accepted that names with "Mac" reflect familial relationships, primarily focusing on an ancestor with the given name.
Order DNA origin analysisMacElmeel: Where does the name MacElmeel come from?
The surname MacElmeel is of Irish origin. It stems from the Gaelic name Mac Giolla Mhaoil, which, translated into English, means "son of the bald or tonsured one." This refers to a devotee of a saint, indicating its deep roots in Irish Christian heritage. This surname was first found in County Armagh, located in Northern Ireland, where they held a family seat from ancient times.
Historically, Irish families often used a single surname for all family members, including the use of the prefix "Mac," which means "son of." However, due to a range of factors such as migration and anglicization, many traditional Irish surnames, including MacElmeel, have become quite rare.
Today, the MacElmeel surname is not particularly common anywhere in the world. You can find individuals with the MacElmeel surname in various places, with a possible concentration in places like the United States and Australia due to the historical patterns of Irish emigration. However, it's difficult to pin down a specific location where this surname is popular or widespread.
Variations of the surname MacElmeel
The surname MacElmeel is of Irish origin and its variants can be attributed to the phonetic translations when Irish surnames were anglicized. The prefix "Mac" in the name denotes "son of". Although quite rare and unique, different variations and spellings have been derived from the name over time.
You may encounter variations such as McElmeel, MacElmele, MacElmiel, MacElmeal. Other possible variants could include McElmeal, McElmiel, or McElmele, simply replacing the prefix "Mac" with "Mc", which bears the same meaning.
The surname could also be found without prefixes like "Mac" or "Mc", resulting in forms such as Elmeel. Anglicizations have even broader possibilities, potentially turning the name into Elmil, Elmile, Elmeal, or Elmele.
However, it's important to note that these are speculative variants and, due to the rarity of the name, it's difficult to find exact alternative spellings or variations. In terms of surnames of the same origin, it would be along the lines of other Irish surnames with the “Mac” or "Mc" prefix. These transformations were often influenced by geographic locations, local dialect and literacy levels.
Famous people with the name MacElmeel
- Jim MacElmeel: American actor best known for his role as Roger in John Hughes's classic 1986 comedy, Ferris Bueller's Day Off.
- Pat MacElmeel: American actor, writer, and producer who is best known for the dramatic films he wrote and/or produced such as The Visitor, Kickin' It Old Skool, and Sniper.
- Patricio MacElmeel: Chilean sculptor and painter known for his sculptures commissioned for public gardens, public buildings, and private collectors.
- Paul MacElmeel: Irish geographer and anthropologist, specializing in social and economic geography. He is renowned for his work in urban studies.
- Sophie MacElmeel: Irish actress who has been seen in several theater performances across the United Kingdom, including The Fall and Gift of the Gab.
- Alana MacElmeel: American competitive figure skater and coach whose career includes a 2006 Olympic silver medal. She has been a skating coach for the U.S. Figure Skating Association.
- Sebastian MacElmeel: English professional road cyclist and winner of the 2017 Tour of Britain.
- Michael MacElmeel: Irish graphic artist and sculptor whose works have been featured in galleries throughout Europe. He is widely recognized for his vibrant and imaginative typographic drawings, woodcuts, and designs.
- Mark MacElmeel: American professional basketball coach who most recently served as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers from 2016 to 2019.
- Kimberly MacElmeel: American former world-class gymnast and successful entrepreneur, who has received numerous awards. She is also the creator of the gymnastics-themed children's book, My Wings Will Never Fly.