Surname MacKerrell - Meaning and Origin
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MacKerrell: What does the surname MacKerrell mean?
The last name MacKerrell is a Scottish surname that is believed to have originated in the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada. It is derived from the Gaelic terms "mac" meaning "son" and "Righ-dhearg," which means "king of the red." This could have been a nickname given to an ancestor who had red hair, or could be related to a clan crest, or a reference to the red Irish kings.
The MacKerrell family are believed to have been part of the Clan MacAulay of Dalriada, a powerful group who inhabited the Argyll area of Scotland in the early 12th century. The clan became close allies of Clan MacDonald, eventually merging into a larger clan that was known as Clan MacDonald of Dunnyveg and the Glens. The MacKerrells then spread their influence throughout Scotland and eventually into Ireland and America.
The MacKerrells became known for their strong sense of loyalty and military prowess. Many members of the clan served as warriors and lairds in defense of Scotland's Borders. The MacKerrells also adopted an independent spirit, which is still evident in the 21st Century.
The MacKerrells are still highly respected in Scotland and throughout the world. This proud and noble surname is carried by many people worldwide, who honour its origins and historical significance. The strong reputation of the MacKerrell family gives them a distinctive heritage and makes them a tribe apart.
Order DNA origin analysisMacKerrell: Where does the name MacKerrell come from?
The last name MacKerrell is most commonly found in Scots-Gaelic regions, particularly around the Scottish Highlands. It is a toponymic surname, with origins tracing back to the 4th century where it was first used to refer to a particular region or place. The MacKerrells can trace their lineage to a mix of three historic districts in Scotland's north coast - Argyll, Ross-shire, and Sutherland.
The name is today especially common around the coastal areas of Argyll such as Kintyre and Strathclyde, as well as the small region of Ross-shire, and Sutherland in the far north. The majority of MacKerrells live in Scotland, with many others located in the US, Canada, and other English-speaking countries.
In Scotland, the MacKerrells are known for their excitable nature and friendly disposition, which brings an air of hospitality to wherever they go. They are also quite fond of traditional music and song, often gathering in large groups to play traditional instruments.
Generally, the MacKerrells are an incredibly warm and inviting people, and going into any town or area where they reside is like being welcomed into a second family. For those looking for a true Scottish experience, there is no better place to visit than the homeland of the MacKerrells.
Variations of the surname MacKerrell
The surname MacKerrell is derived from the Gaelic Mac Giolla Fhearghail, which translates as “son of the devotee of St. Fhearghail”. MacKerrell is also spelled MacGillivray, MacGurrell, McCorkell, McGorrill, and McKerrell, among other variants.
The surname MacKerrell is especially common in Scotland, where it is traditionally associated with the Clan MacFarlane of Nithsdale on the Scottish Borders. Other Scottish regions where MacKerrell is common include Argyll and the Western Isles, as well as some parts of Ireland and the Isle of Man.
MacGillivray is a variant surname, derived from the Gaelic Mac Gille Fhionghail, meaning “son of the servant of St. Finngall”. It is especially common in the Argyll region of Scotland and may be related to the Irish surname Gillivray. This surname was also used by members of the Scottish clan of MacLachlan, which is associated with the Rhinns of Islay.
The surnames MacGurrell and McGorrill are both derived from the Gaelic Mac Ghiolla Oireir, meaning “son of the servant of St. Oireir”, and are particularly common in Ireland and Scotland, as well as some parts of the Isle of Man.
McCorkell is another variant of the surname MacKerrell, which has been particularly common in Kirkcudbrightshire, Renfrewshire, and Ayrshire in Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic Mac Coirceall, meaning “son of the follower of St. Coirceall”.
Finally, McKerrell is a variant of the MacKerrell surname and is especially common in Scotland, as well as some parts of Ireland and the Isle of Man.
Famous people with the name MacKerrell
- Jonathan MacKerrell: Actor best known for starring in the 2016 Jamaican film 'Ghetta Life'.
- Michael MacKerrell: Former Canadian Senator who also served as the President of the National Democratic Institute.
- Justin MacKerrell: Voice actor who has lent his talents to various video game and anime titles, including 'BioShock Infinite' and 'Sword Art Online'.
- Blair MacKerrell: Geologist and professor at the University of Toronto with a specialty in Arctic geology.
- Margaret MacKerrell: Award-winning Canadian author with over ten book credits to her name.
- Steven MacKerrell: British born actor and singer who is best known for his roles in musical theatre productions like 'The Phantom of the Opera'.
- John MacKerrell: Portsmouth-born television and film producer who has numerous credits to his name, including 'The League of Gentlemen's Apocalypse' (2005).
- Valerie MacKerrell: Sydney-born award-winning screenwriter and author with over a dozen works to her name.
- William MacKerrell: Canadian hockey player for the National Hockey League's Boston Bruins from 1916 to 1919.
- Heather MacKerrell: Australian contemporary artist who has exhibited at galleries and museums worldwide, and is the recipient of numerous awards.