Surname MacGough - Meaning and Origin

MacGough: What does the surname MacGough mean?

The surname MacGough is believed to be of Irish origin and a derivative of the Gaelic name "MacGabhann," which directly translates to "Son of the Smith." The term "Gabhann" comes from "gabha," which means "smith" in Gaelic. Thus, this name often relates to occupations, specifically to families or individuals who were blacksmiths. Surnames in Celtic and Gaelic cultures often alluded to familial relationships or vocational associations. Like many Irish names, different variations of spelling can be found due to the transliteration from Gaelic to English; common variations include McGough, McGoff, and MacGoff. Similar to many other surnames of this type, the family crest and coat of arms have been linked with the family's history and genealogy. It is always important to remember that surnames have evolved over centuries and may have different meanings and interpretations across different regions and families. Keep in mind that this is a generalized understanding of the surname, and individual family histories might differ.

MacGough: Where does the name MacGough come from?

The last name MacGough originates from Scotland. It is an anglicization of the Gaelic name Mac Gobhann, which means 'son of the blacksmith.' This name was common among the Gallowglass, a class of Scottish mercenaries who settled in Ireland during the Middle Ages. Today, variants of MacGough such as McGough and McGoff are more commonly used. The name, in its various forms, is found predominantly in Ireland and Scotland due to their historical connections, and also in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia due to Scottish and Irish diaspora. MacGough and its variants qualify as occupational surnames, derived from the profession of the initial bearer. It is an important surname in terms of historical and cultural heritage primarily linked to Scottish and Irish lineages.

Variations of the surname MacGough

The surname MacGough comes from the Irish Gaelic "Mac Eochaidh," which means "son of Eochaidh" or "son of Hugh". Numerous variations and spellings exist, mainly due to the phonetic recording of the name by English clerks during the Middle Ages.

Common variants and spelling of the surname include: MacGeough, MacGoff, McGough, McGeough, McGoff, McGoffe, Mageough, Magee, McGee, and McCough. Some of these versions may drop the "Mac" or "Mc" prefix, resulting in Geough or Gough.

It's important to note that spelling variations even among those with the same surname were quite common due to the majority of people being illiterate in older centuries. The name evolved differently in different regions.

There are also surnames of the same origin that have changed more dramatically over time, such as Mackey, McKee, Mackie, or McCoy, stemming from the "Mac" prefix combined with shortened or anglicised versions of "Eochaidh". These surnames all have roots in the original Gaelic, but have diverged more significantly from the original spelling.

However, always keep in mind that surname origins can be complex, with different branches of a family choosing different spellings or even entirely new names based on personal, political, or cultural reasons.

Famous people with the name MacGough

• Luke MacGough: Irish footballer from Belfast, Northern Ireland.
• Lee MacGough: former English footballer.
• Sean MacGough: an actor and executive producer from Toronto.
• Allen MacGough: Former American basketball player.
• Paul MacGough: British actor from Lancashire.
• Ciarán MacGough: Irish civil engineer and activist.
• Derek MacGough: American poker player.
• Gordon MacGough: American politician from Texas.
• Catherine MacGough: Scottish philantropist.
• Adam MacGough: An R&B singer from Birmingham, England.
• Marie MacGough: Television presenter and director from Scotland.
• James MacGough: British artist and sculptor.
• Sister Mary MacGough: Irish nun remembered for her service to communities in India.
• Fiona MacGough: Scottish novelist.
• John MacGough: Professional archaeologist from Oxford.
• Lizzie MacGough: Irish artist, sculptor and activist.
• Warren MacGough: Politician from New Zealand.
• Lucinda MacGough: Actress from London.

Other surnames

MacGourtey