Surname MacEoghainn - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'M'
MacEoghainn: What does the surname MacEoghainn mean?
The last name MacEoghainn is of Scottish origin and can be translated as "Son of Eoghainn" or "Son of Eugene". The prefix 'Mac' in Celtic surnames typically means 'son of' and is often used to indicate patrilineal descent. The name 'Eoghainn' itself is derived from the Greek name 'Eugenios', which means 'well-born' or 'noble'. Therefore, the surname MacEoghainn would have originally denoted someone who was the descendant of a person named Eoghainn, or Eugene. Similar to many other surnames that have their roots in patronyms, the name MacEoghainn in ancient times was likely used to help distinguish between individuals who had the same given name. It is also worth noting that this surname may have several variants depending on the specific geographical region and historical period, such as McEwan, MacEwan, McEwen, and others.
Order DNA origin analysisMacEoghainn: Where does the name MacEoghainn come from?
The surname MacEoghainn originates from Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic "Mac Eoghainn," which means "Son of Eoghann." This is a patronymic surname, meaning it's based on the given name of the father.
Although Eoghann is quite a common given name in Gaelic, corresponding to the English name "Owen," the surname MacEoghainn is relatively rare. It most likely originates from the west of Scotland, where Gaelic was most commonly spoken. Like many Scottish names, it is likely found in various forms and spellings, including McEwan, McEwen, MacEwan and MacEwen.
As for prevalence today, exact numbers are hard to find because of the various spellings and because of emigration from Scotland, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. Thus, you can expect to find those with this surname in any country with a significant number of Scottish descendants, including Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as in Scotland itself. However, it is generally quite a rare name and not common in any particular region.
Variations of the surname MacEoghainn
The surname MacEoghainn is of Scottish and Irish Gaelic origin. Variations of this name feature different prefixes, typically "Mac" or "Mc," denoting "son of," or "O," which signifies "descendant of." The root of the surname is derived from "Eoghan," which means "youth" or "young warrior."
Different spellings and variants of MacEoghainn can include MacEwen, MacEwan, McEwan, McEwen, MacEoghan, McEoghan, and Ewing. It's also possible to come across the surname as McKeown or McCown in some regions.
An Anglicized form without the prefix is Egan or Eagan, while in Scotland you'll most commonly find it as McEwan or Ewan.
Origins might vary slightly; For instance, the McEwan clan traces back to Clan MacEwen of Otter, western Scotland, while other versions might have roots in different Scottish or Irish regions.
It's also worth mentioning that spellings often changed with the relocation of families, for example during the massive Irish diaspora during the 19th century, so bear in mind this isn't an exhaustive list of all existing variants.
Famous people with the name MacEoghainn
- Stephen MacEoghainn: the father of modern Gaelic literature, an influential author.
- Taidgh MacEoghainn: a famed composer of traditional Irish music and one of the founders of the resurgent Irish traditional music culture.
- John O'MacEoghainn: a 19th century historian and antiquarian from County Donegal, Ireland.
- Eoin MacEoghainn: a celebrated sculptor from County Kerry, Ireland; best known for his Celtic sculpture.
- Art MacEoghainn: an actor who started out in the traditional Irish theatre scene before going international.
- Cathal MacEoghainn: an Irish traditional fiddler and singer known for his creative renditions of Irish tunes.
- Fiona MacEoghainn: a renowned psychologist who has made a significant contribution to the mental health area in Ireland.
- Aidan MacEoghainn: a prominent Irish television presenter, most noted for his interviews with leading sport and entertainment figures.
- Rory MacEoghainn: a contemporary Irish artist who is known for his vibrant and emotive oil paintings.
- Brian MacEoghainn: a successful financial businessman from Ireland who developed a series of wealth management strategies.