Surname Macilriach - Meaning and Origin
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Macilriach: What does the surname Macilriach mean?
The Macilriach surname is believed to be derived from the Gaelic term “Mc-Ilreach,” which translates to “son of Ilreach.” The name Ilreach itself has its roots in the word “ilre,” meaning “to strive.” This suggests that the original bearer of the name was likely a person of ambition, strength and courage - willing to fight for what was important or stand out against the majority.
The Macilriach clan is believed to be descended from a chieftain of the MacGregor Clan, according to some accounts from the 16th century Scots-Gaelic traditions. There is some evidence to suggest that Macilriach, like other MacGregor Clan surnames, was frequently changed to avoid persecution. During this time, the MacGregor Clan suffered several waves of oppression whilst the clan sought to gain independence and exercised their right to bear arms in defense of their people.
Over the centuries, Macilriach descendants were known to be hardworking, loyal and dedicated - something that still holds true today. As a result, Macilriach is seen as a highly respected name in Scotland, where the clan is considered to be of high standing.
Those who claim this surname today are thought to share a common ancestor, someone who strived to make a difference and stood strong for the betterment of their clan. Thus, the name Macilriach is one of strength and resilience, and embodies the courage and perseverance that the original bearer of the name possessed.
Order DNA origin analysisMacilriach: Where does the name Macilriach come from?
The surname Macilriach is mainly found in the Scottish Highlands, primarily in the counties of Ross-shire and Sutherland. It is believed to have originated with a family of Cailleachs who lived in the region in ancient times. Though originally a Gaelic name, Macilriach is now generally found amongst the Scots-Irish in Ulster, particularly in Northern Ireland. The surname Macilriach is also found in Scotland, particularly in the northern and western regions of Scotland, as a result of the Highland Clearances, which caused many Scots to emigrate to other parts of the British Isles.
The surname Macilriach remains relatively uncommon globally, however in recent years it has seen some expansion beyond the Scottish Highlands. It is now present in parts of Australia, Canada, the United States, and more commonly England, as as a result of immigration and emigration patterns. In the United States, the name is particularly common in states with large populations of Scots-Irish.
Though the surname has seen some expansion beyond Scotland, the Scottish Highlands remain the main area of residence for those with the last name Macilriach. Those looking to trace their family roots may find that the original surname and spelling was M’Ildreach, which is now increasingly seen in contemporary records.
Variations of the surname Macilriach
Macilriach is a Scottish surname of both Gaelic and Pictish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic words Mac, meaning "son" or "mortal", and Ile-riach, meaning "an old man, a tall man". As a patronymic surname it means "son of the old man".
The possible variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin for Macilriach include Macilrych, Macilrich, Maccelrich, Maciliach, MacIllich, MacLuree, MacLurrich, MacLirich, MacIlrick, MacIlrey, Makilrik, Makilrie, Makilree, and MacLeard.
Macilrych is derived from the same Gaelic expression mac Ile-riach, but it is spelled differently. It may refer to the same origin, but it is not confirmed.
Maccelrich is a variant of Macilrich which is derived from the Gaelic mac Ile-riach, which literally means "son of the old man". It is also spelled as MacLeard and may refer to the same origin but is not certain.
Maciliach is derived from the Gaelic mac Ile-riach, but it is spelled differently. It may refer to the same origin, but it is not confirmed.
MacIllich is derived from the Gaelic mac Ile-riach, but it is spelled differently. It may refer to the same origin, but it is not confirmed.
MacLuree, MacLurrich, and MacLirich are variations of the same Gaelic expression Mac Ile-riach, but they are spelled differently. They may refer to the same origin, but it is not certain.
MacIlrick, MacIlrey, Makilrik, Makilrie, and Makilree are also variations of the same Gaelic expression Mac Ile-riach, but they are spelled differently. They may refer to the same origin, but it is not confirmed.
Famous people with the name Macilriach
- Caitríona MacIlraiche: an Irish actress known for her roles in films like "Aisling's Diary" and "Wake Up Night".
- Ingrid MacIlraiche: an Irish actress best known for her roles in "The Gravediggers" and "Dancing on the Edge of the Atlantic".
- Rhys MacIlraiche: a Welsh actor who had roles in films like "The Edge of Love" and "The Iron Lady".
- Deirdre MacIlraiche: an Irish actress and singer who starred in "Once" and "The Tudors" television series.
- Kate MacIlraiche: an Irish actress and singer who appeared in "Perriers Extraordinaire" and "The Commitments".
- Eamon MacIlraiche: a Scottish singer and musician who released albums such as "Antique Soul" and "The Ancient Heretic".
- Diarmuid MacIlraiche: an Irish actor best known for his roles in "Prince Caspian" and "Ripper Street".
- Gerry MacIlraiche: a Scottish actor who had supporting roles in "Braveheart" and "The Full Monty".
- Cáit MacIlraiche: an Irish singer who released the album "Aisling".
- Krista MacIlraiche: an Irish actress and model who has had roles in "Raw" and "Eden".