Surname MacKerras - Meaning and Origin
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MacKerras: What does the surname MacKerras mean?
The last name MacKerras is of Scottish origin and it is believed to be a variant of MacKersey or MacKerras, derived from the Gaelic MacFhearchair, which means "son of Farquhar". The name Farquhar is composed of two elements: "fear" which means "man" and "char" translating to "dear, beloved". So, the meaning of this original name could be interpreted as "son of the beloved man". It has spread and evolved into several forms due to regional dialects and phonetic spellings over the centuries. Like many surnames taken from Gaelic patronymics, individuals with the MacKerras surname may be descended from a common ancestor with the given name Farquhar. It also likely that the name relates to a geographical location the ancestor may have originally lived in or ruled over. There are records of the MacKerras name in Scotland dating back to the medieval period and it's still in use today. Note that the prefix "Mac" or "Mc" in a Scottish or Irish surname generally means "son of".
Order DNA origin analysisMacKerras: Where does the name MacKerras come from?
The surname MacKerras is of Scottish origin, specifically derived from the Gaelic elements "mac," meaning "son of," and "Fhearghais," a personal name composed of the elements "fear" meaning "man" and "gus" meaning "vigour" or "force." This suggests that the original bearer of the name could be identified as the "son of Fhearghas," hence, it's a patrilineal surname. Despite its Scottish origin, the surname is not very common in Scotland today. However, the name has found its way across the globe due to migration and it can be found in countries like the United States, Australia, and England, though it remains relatively rare even there. Notable individuals with the surname include the renowned Australian conductor and musicologist Charles Mackerras, further contributing to the global distribution of the name.
Variations of the surname MacKerras
The surname MacKerras may have other variations based on the way it was passed down through generations, geographical shifts, and translations. Some possible spellings and variations of the same origin could be Makerras, MaKerras, MacErras, McKerras, McErras, M'Kerras, and Makerrass, among others.
MacKerras is believed to be of Scottish origin and was used to denote individuals hailing from the region around the Kerras Park in the Scottish Highlands. As it is rooted in Celtic and Gaelic history, names similar to MacKerras, such as Kerr and Ker, may be related.
However, it's worth noting that sometimes different surnames that sound similar may not be related at all. Verifying lineage and historical information is always recommended when researching origins of surnames.
Remember that in the Gaelic tradition, "Mac" or "Mc" is an abbreviation for "son of" and this could be a part of many Scottish or Irish names. Thus, "Kerras" may be the key root of this name and could have variations of its own.
Moreover, the usage of the surname might have extended across regions, including places like Ireland and Australia, where Scottish people migrated, thereby resulting in more variations.
Famous people with the name MacKerras
- Sir Charles Mackerras: He was a renowned Australian conductor, recognized for his works with prestigious orchestras both nationally and internationally.
- Sir Alan Mackerras: He was a notable Australian entomologist, known for his extensive works on Australian insects. He is the brother of Sir Charles Mackerras.
- Malcolm Mackerras: An Australian psephologist who gained fame for his analysis and commentary on elections in Australia. He is a nephew of Sir Charles Mackerras.
- Alastair Mackerras: An influential figure in Australian education, especially noted for his role as a Headmaster of Sydney Grammar School. He is also a direct relation of Sir Charles Mackerras.
- Colin Mackerras: Prominent Australian sinologist, specialized in Chinese history, culture and its society. He's the elder brother of Malcolm Mackerras.