Surname MacPharlan - Meaning and Origin
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MacPharlan: What does the surname MacPharlan mean?
MacPharlan is a Celtic surname originating in Scotland. It is derived from the pre-10th century Gaelic word Mac Pharlain which translates to ‘son of the Partholan’ or ‘son of the natural born Partholan’. Partholan, or Parthalan was legendary leader of an invading group of Gaels to Ireland, believed to have lived in the second century BC. The word 'Pharlain' is believed to refer to the Roman governor of Britain who was sent to Britain in about AD 86 - Agricola - whose name is Latin for 'ploughman'.
MacPharlan is an anglicization of an ancient personal name, and belonged originally to the MacPharlaiins, a 'Sept' or sub-division of Clan Gregor, the powerful clan of Rob Roy MacGregor fame. When Clan Gregor was outlawed in the 1600s the MacPharlans then spread further throughout Scotland, easily recognizable by their unique tartan, a pattern incorporating three various blues and a green.
The spelling of the name has varied over time; MacFarlan, McFarlan and McFarland being common variations. From Scotland, the family spread to Northern Ireland and North America, later migrating also to other parts of the United Kingdom and other countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Today, there are many diverse branches of the MacPharlan family, who have made their respective marks in history. From missionary work, to military service, to fame in sports and business ventures, the MacPharlans have solidified their proud heritage and shared connection worldwide.
In summary, MacPharlan is an ancient Celtic word of honor and respect for Partholan, a leader who brought a group of Gaels to Ireland in the second century BC. It is a surname that originated from Scotland, and has since been spread throughout many countries, with the remarkable success the family has achieved in different areas of life following them wherever they go.
Order DNA origin analysisMacPharlan: Where does the name MacPharlan come from?
The last name MacPharlan is common in Scotland. In Scotland, there are many small towns with the MacPharlan name that have a population of close to 900 people. This last name originates from the Clan MacFarlane, which has roots in Argyll and throughout the Scotland highlands. The name MacPharlan originated more than 500 years ago when an anglicised version of the Gaelic name “MacGille Bhàrrlann” was used.
Today, the MacPharlan name is still quite common in Scotland, particularly in Argyll, where it has been used for centuries. The name is particularly common in small towns and villages such as Sgùrr min Eoin, Inveraray, Arrochar, Lochgoilhead, and Strachur, where the surname is known for its longevity, loyalty, and staunch support for their land and people.
Outside of Scotland, the MacPharlan name is still common, although it is not as concentrated. It is especially common in Australia, where it has been used since the early 19th century. MacPharlands are also found in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries throughout the world.
Overall, the MacPharlan name is still incredibly common throughout Scotland, and its legacy continues to be passed down from generation to generation.
Variations of the surname MacPharlan
MacPharlan is an old Scottish surname that has several variations and spellings, including MacFarlane, MacFarland, MacFarlin, MacFarlain, MacFarlan, and others. Over time, the original spelling has changed, with several other variant spellings appearing in records and documents through the centuries.
The historic roots of the MacPharlan surname are found in the ancient province of Galloway, part of the old Kingdom of Scotland. The original form of the surname, Mac Pharlain, was derived from the Gaelic phrase “Mac Phàrlain” meaning “son of Parlan.” Parlan was a popular personal name in this region and was later adopted as the family surname.
As the population of Scotland emigrated to other countries, the surname MacPharlan came along with them and began to take on new variations and spellings. In Scotland, MacPharlan is mostly found in areas such as Dumfries & Galloway, Glasgow and Ayrshire.
In the United States, it can also be found under various spellings, such as MacFarlane, MacFarland, MacFarlan, MacFarlain, MacFarlane, MacFarlene, and MacFarlin. Some of the American forms of the surname typically found in Australia, Canada, and other countries include MacFarland, MacFarlane, MacFarlene, and McFarlane.
In all, the MacPharlan surname is known to have at least twenty-six different variations in spelling. While many of these variations may look similar to one another, they all trace back to the same ancient root and still identify the same family.
Famous people with the name MacPharlan
- James MacPharlan Smith: Scottish sculptor and artist
- Ross MacPharlan: Canadian film and television actor
- Neil MacPharlan: British actor, comedian, and playwright
- Robin MacPharlan: American art gallery director
- Angus MacPharlan: Retired Scottish professional footballer
- Robert MacPharlan: Former chairman and CEO of Bell Canada
- Grant MacPharlan: Canadian former professional ice hockey player
- Rod MacPharlan: Canadian former professional ice hockey player
- Christina MacPharlan: Scottish television presenter and radio host
- Elspeth Grant MacPharlan: Retired Canadian Olympic swimmer