Surname MacFarlain - Meaning and Origin
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MacFarlain: What does the surname MacFarlain mean?
The last name MacFarlain is an Anglicization of the Scottish-Gaelic name MacFhearghail, which is derived from the Gaelic word fearghal, meaning "valor" or "vigilant protection." The name is associated with the Clan MacFarlane, which is a Scottish clan active in the west Highlands and Islands, and derived from a younger son of a powerful family of the 13th century.
The clan's traditional territories are split between the Highland regions of Argyll, Lochaber, and Strathclyde and an island in the River Clyde estuary. The MacFarlane clan were known for their devotion to their Gaelic roots, and were considered to be a powerful and independent clan. During their height of power, they controlled the majority of the uplands to the east of Loch Lomond.
The clan derived its wealth from cattle-rearing and fishing, and while it maintained its traditional lifestyle, it was responsive to its changing environment. It is noted for being among the first to adopt outside influences, including engagements in trade practices. It had its own court of law, and played a prominent role in public leadership.
The clan is still active today, and can claim a proud heritage of valour and vigilant protection. It is an important element in the history of Scotland and serves as a reminder of the powerful independent nation that Scotland once was. MacFarlain is undoubtedly a proud symbol of the symbols of strength and solidarity that prevailed in Scotland for many centuries.
Order DNA origin analysisMacFarlain: Where does the name MacFarlain come from?
The MacFarlain surname is most common today in Scotland, particularly in the Argyll and Sutherland area. In modern-day Scotland the population of MacFarlain is estimated to be around one thousand. The MacFarlain surname dates back to the 13th century, when it is believed that the family may have originated in the Loch Lomond and Argyll area of Scotland. The MacFarlain family was notable in the Scottish border area in the 12th and 13th centuries. During this period their family occupied a significant portion of land.
During the 15th century, the MacFarlains moved to the uplands of southwestern Scotland, and continued to be involved in running the land. This community was one of the most powerful clans in the Argyll and Sutherland area. They were noted for their strength and their loyalty to their clan.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the MacFarlains moved further north and west, settling widely in the Scottish highlands. Records show that the MacFarlain surname is particularly common in the former county of Sutherland.
Today, it is likely that the surname of MacFarlain is most prevalent in Scotland, although its members are found scattered around the world. The MacFarlains may have moved to other parts of Britain or to the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
For those who have retained the MacFarlain name, or who are descended from this family, preserving the legacy of the MacFarlains is important. This legacy is one of a proud family who have served their community for many centuries, ensuring its continuity and prosperity.
Variations of the surname MacFarlain
The surname MacFarlain has many variants, spellings, and similar surnames.
MacFarlan, MacFarlane, and MacFarland are the most common variants of the surname MacFarlain. MacFarlan and MacFarlane are both derived from the Scottish Gaelic roots “Mac Pharlain”, meaning son of Parlane. MacFarland is another variant derived from the same root, with an added “d” to the end of the surname, stemming from variants of the classical Gaelic spelling.
The Scottish surname Pharlain is closely related to MacFarlain, and has variants such as Pharlane and Pharlam. The Irish surname MacPharlane is a more Anglicise form of the Gaelic Mac Pharlain, and is found all across the Emerald Isle.
Related surnames of MacFarlain include McClain, McLain, and McLean. These surnames can be traced to the Scottish Gaelic root “Mac Giolla Eoin”, meaning “son of the servant of St. John”. Additionally, McClaren, McLaron, and McLaren are associated with MacFarlain and originate in Scotland.
MacFarlain is also related to the surname MacFarlane-Barrow, which is a combination of both MacFarlane and Barrow. Barrow is an English topographic surname derived from the Old English “beorg”, meaning “hill” or “mound”. This hostility may also have an additional origin of the Old English burg, meaning “stronghold” or “fortified place”.
Famous people with the name MacFarlain
- Caitriona Balfe: Scottish actress and former fashion model.
- Tom McFarland: American musician, songwriter, and producer, best known as a founding member of the band Neon Trees.
- Patrick MacFarlane: American sprint canoer who competed in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul.
- Ashley MacIsaac: Canadian folk-fiddle singer from Nova Scotia, Canada.
- Richard C. McFarland: American physicist and Nobel Prize in Physics Laureate.
- Robert McFarland: American archer who competed in the 2004 Summer Olympics.
- Arthur McFarland: American politician who served as Vermont State Auditor from 1939 to 1944.
- Michael MacFarlane: English former cricketer.
- Willie MacFarlane: Scottish professional footballer.
- Rob McFarland: Canadian rugby union player.