Surname Machray - Meaning and Origin

Machray: What does the surname Machray mean?

The surname Machray is of Scottish origin, specifically from the region of Old Machar in Aberdeen, Scotland. It is a locational surname, which generally derived from the place where the original bearer lived or held land. The importance of the surname Machray illustrates that the family was historically significant and held a strong presence within society. "Machar" loosely translates to "low lying" or "fertile ground" in Gaelic. Therefore, it could be inferred that the bearers of the surname potentially held positions related to agriculture or land ownership in these fertile regions. Like many surnames, it was carried over to different parts of the world during times of migration. Despite this, the surname Machray remains relatively unusual and is mostly found in Scotland, England, and countries of the British Commonwealth.

Machray: Where does the name Machray come from?

The last name Machray is of Scottish origin, specifically Gaelic. It is believed to be derived from 'Mac Rath,' which translates to 'Son of Grace or Prosperity.' The name is closely associated with the Scottish Highlands.

The original bearers were present in Scotland since ancient times and later due to events like migration and colonization, the name was spread to different parts of the world. However, compared to other Scottish surnames, Machray is considered relatively rare. It is not common anywhere in the world today but can be found among some descendants living in Scotland and in countries where Scottish emigrants settled, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is likely most common in these places due to the geographical dispersion and adoption by different cultures over the years. Despite this, it remains far from a commonplace surname. The number of individuals with the Machray surname is likely only a few hundred or perhaps a few thousand in the entire world.

Variations of the surname Machray

The surname Machray may have multiple variations and alternate spellings due to its possible Scottish or Irish origin. Alternate spellings could include Machrey, Machraye, MacRay, MacRae, McRay, McRae, etc.

In Scotland, clan system makes the surname more complex. The Celtic spelling for MacRae might be Mac Rath, with 'Mac' meaning 'son of' and 'Rath' meaning 'rate' or 'fortune'.

In Ireland, the MacRaghnaill clan, Anglicized as McGrannell then later as MacGranel, could be a source. Mac an Rí means "son of the King" in Irish Gaelic, which is often Anglicized as King, but might also be MacRae or MacRay.

Moreover, 'Macrae' stands for 'son of grace' in Scottish Gaelic. The clan Macrae is also associated with surnames Macara, Macarra, MacCrae, MacCraw, MacCray, MacCreath, MacCrie, MacGrath, MacRaith, MacRath, McCreadie, etc.

Thus, the surname 'Machray' variants could also be spelt following these patterns. However, the specific origin might influence the precise spelling and variations for 'Machray'. Keep in mind that many surnames have evolved over centuries and may have been adapted to multiple languages and regional dialects.

Famous people with the name Machray

• John Jacob Machray: John Jacob Machray was a Canadian Anglican bishop, regarded as the founder of the Anglican Church of Canada.
• Lance Machray: Lance Machray is an American television producer, having produced show such as Leverage, The Vampire Diaries, and The Originals.
• Cece Machray: Cece Machray is a British singer-songwriter from Manchester. She won the NME Best Unsigned Solo Artist Award in 2015 and has released several singles and one album.
• Sally Machray: Sally Machray is an English writer, specializing in non-fiction books, articles, and blogs. She primarily writes about health, nutrition, and relationships.
• Joe Machray: Joe Machray is a British football coach and the former coach of Brentford Football Club.
• R.J. Machray: R.J. Machray was a Canadian Anglican clergyman and scholar who served as Bishop of Rupert’s Land from 1858 until his death in 1899. He was a major influence in organizing the Anglican Church throughout the Canadian west.
• Henry Machray: Henry Machray was an English surveyor who designed several lighthouses in the British Isles, including the Sule Skerry Lighthouse.
• Dr. Jack Machray: Dr. Jack Machray is a Canadian neurosurgeon specializing in earthquake neurosurgery. He has worked in Haiti, Pakistan, Nepal, and since 2013 has been consulting in Myanmar.
• James Machray: James Machray was a Scottish clergyman who served as Bishop of Rupert’s Land from 1884 to 1886.
• John Machray: John Machray was an American entomologist who specialized in the study of mosquitoes. He was responsible for the establishment of the first mosquito control program in the United States.

Other surnames

MachraeMachrie