Surname MacIlduff - Meaning and Origin
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MacIlduff: What does the surname MacIlduff mean?
The last name MacIlduff is an anglicized form of the Scottish Gaelic MacGiolla Dhuibh, which translates to 'son of the dark-haired one.' It is thought to have originated in the ancient region of Galloway, also known as the ancient Kingdom of Galloway.
The MacIlduff name is likely derived from a patronymic association with a larger clan, the Clan of Duff, which itself is linked to the mountainous and historic province of Moray in the Highlands of Scotland. In the 11th century, King David I of Scotland granted Hugh of Moray the lands of Duffus, and Hugh became known as “Hugh de Duffus.” It was through Hugh’s descendants further down the male line that the name MacIlduff became associated with the hereditary rulers of the region and entitled to the privileges of the laird.
Throughout the centuries, MacIlduffs have been prominently featured in the history of Scotland and around the world. Today, the MacIlduff name is most associated with the family crest, which dates to the 14th century and consists of a tan hand embroidered onto a field of red. This crest is a great testament to the legacy of the MacIlduff name, which has long been associated with self-reliance, an industrious spirit and loyalty to the Scottish crown.
Order DNA origin analysisMacIlduff: Where does the name MacIlduff come from?
The last name MacIlduff is most commonly found today in Scotland and parts of Canada. In Scotland, it is especially prevalent in the western part of the country, including in the Scottish Borders region, in North Ayrshire, and along the Ferintosh coast. In Canada, the majority of MacIlduffs are located in British Columbia, particularly in the Greater Vancouver area, but the name can be found in other provinces as well.
The MacIlduffs are a sept, or branch, of the larger Clan MacDonald, which originated in Ireland but was driven out during the early modern period. The Scottish MacIlduffs in turn trace their roots back to the ancient kingdom of Dalriada, which once spanned both Scotland and Ireland. The MacIlduffs have maintained strong ties with the Clan MacDonald, and many bear the clan’s war cry—Victory over the Red MacDonalds!—on their coats of arms.
The origin of the MacIlduff name is uncertain, although there are several theories. Some believe it is derived from the Gaelic Mac Giolla Dhuibh, meaning “son of the dark haired servant.” Others suggest that it is a variant of the Irish name Mac Giolla Dhuibh, meaning “son of the dark soldier.”
Today, many MacIlduffs have embraced their ancient heritage, attending clan gatherings and wearing traditional clan tartans. The presence of the MacIlduffs is a reminder of the rich history that is intertwined with Scotland and Ireland—full of tragedy, triumph, and enduring loyalty.
Variations of the surname MacIlduff
MacIlduff is a Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic Mac Giolla Dhuibh meaning "son of the black servant". It is also sometimes spelled as MacGillduff, MacGilduff, MacIldoff, MacKelduff, MacKeldoff, and McGilduff. In addition, the surname is sometimes anglicised as Megilduff and MacIldoe.
The most popular variants and spellings of the name are MacIlduff and MacGillduff. The surname MacGilduff is more common in Scotland, while variations such as MacIldoff and MacKelduff are typically found outside Scotland, particularly in the USA and Canada.
The anglicized surname of MacIldoe is believed to have originated in Northern Ireland. The spelling MacKeldoff is also commonly found in the United States and Canada.
The surnames of Megilduff, MacKelduff and MacIldoff are believed to have various regional spellings in Scotland, with some having been altered to Megildoff.
In conclusion, the Scottish surname of MacIlduff is derived from the Gaelic Mac Giolla Dhuibh meaning "son of the black servant" and is spelt in various ways such as MacGillduff, MacGilduff, MacIldoff, MacKelduff, MacKeldoff, McGilduff, Megilduff, and MacIldoe.
Famous people with the name MacIlduff
- Mia MacIlduff: actress, known for her role in the Australian soap opera, Home and Away.
- Eoin MacIlduff: a former professional footballer who represented Scotland in the National Team.
- Bill MacIlduff: 35th Premier of Ontario, Canada, during the period from 1990 to 1992.
- Jean MacIlduff: the first woman to be appointed County Clerk for Renfrew County, Canada.
- Fiona MacIlduff: British actress, known for her roles in shows such as Midsomer Murders and Father Brown.
- Hannah MacIlduff: British author and producer, best known for co-writing the television series Shetland.
- Angus MacIlduff: International Grand Master of the Federation International des Maurys et Lepume, the governing body of modern jousts.
- Duncan MacIlduff: Conservative Member of Parliament in the House of Commons in Scotland from 2005 to 2010.
- Taylor MacIlduff: professional golfer on the LPGA Tour.
- Eddie MacIlduff: Scottish comedian and television presenter, known for television shows such as Only an Excuse? and Fitba Crazy.