Surname MacWatters - Meaning and Origin

MacWatters: What does the surname MacWatters mean?

The last name MacWatters is a Scottish name derived from the Gaelic language. The name MacWatters is a patronymic surname meaning “Son of Watters.” It is a sept of Clan Campbell, one of the most powerful families in Scotland during the middle ages.

The origin of the name MacWatters dates back to about the twelfth century; at that time, Watters was a popular personal name in Scotland. There is evidence that the MacWatters family was present in different parts of Scotland, including Tayside, Lowland, Ayrshire, and Fife.

The MacWatters family played an important role in the Scottish history such as in the Battle of Bannockburn, which resulted in a victory for Robert the Bruce. Today, descendants of MacWatters are located throughout the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

The MacWatter name is not used as much in Scotland as it once was, but many members of the clan are proud of their heritage and still use the name or variations of it. The family coat of arms features a blue saltire on a gold background, and two key mottes, which signify the stereotypes of the clan. Those stereotypes represent strength, courage, and loyalty. The motto used by the MacWatters family is “Dread not,” which serves as a reminder to live life without fear.

MacWatters: Where does the name MacWatters come from?

The surname MacWatters is most prevalently found in North America, where it has been traced back to original Scottish immigrants from the 16th century. A large concentration of MacWatters in the 20th century could be found in the Appalachian region of the U.S. and Canada, with more recent records suggesting that MacWatters are also found in other parts of the U.S. and Canada.

MacWatters ancestry can be traced back to the Isle of Skye, Scotland, with records showing a family of John and Margaret MacWatters who emigrated to USA in the late 16th century. Families of MacWatters quickly spread across the continent and were known to be found in various parts of Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia and Missouri.

Today, the MacWatters name is still commonly found in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. A number of MacWatters have also been located in Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany and various parts of Europe.

Various branches of the MacWatters have contributed to the American landscape in many ways. From forming the backbone of the labor movement in the early 20th century to establishing publications and businesses, the name MacWatters continues to be an integral part of North American life and culture.

Variations of the surname MacWatters

The variants, spellings, and surnames of MacWatters have a Scottish origin. MacWatters is a patronymic surname that comes from the gaelic language and it translates in English to the "son of Walter." Alternate spellings include Mac Water, Macwatter, Mac Waters and Mackwatters. Surnames of the same origin include Walter, Walters, Watters, and Watt.

Walter is a germanic name derived from the old High German word "waldhar," meaning "ruler of the army". Walters is an Anglo-Saxon surname derived from the Middle English word “Water” where the prefix "Walter" is added to the end of it. Watters is derived from the Middle English word "watere" which is the word used to describe "the dwellers by the water". The prefix "Walter" is then attached to the end. Watt is a gaelic name derived from the word "word" which means "stranger".

Variations of the surname MacWatters can also be found in Scotland, Ireland, Canada, and the United States where it has been adopted by immigrant settlers. In Scotland, the MacWatters name has evolved into the clans of Walker, Watergate, Watterson or Watson while in Ireland the surname has become MacWalter, MacWachy, MacQuicker or McCuish. In Canada and the United States, the McWatter or MacWatters surname is often Anglicized to MacWalter or Walther.

For those with the surname MacWatters, their heritage can be traced back to Walter, the son of the ruler of the army, as well as the Middle English words “Water” and “Watere.” The surname is believed to have been adopted by settlers who immigrated to other countries from Scotland, Ireland, Canada, and the United States.

Famous people with the name MacWatters

• Mike MacWatters: a professional drummer from Austin, Texas who has recorded with many well-known musicians such as the Beach Boys and Neil Young.
• Sarah MacWatters: the lead singer of the Canadian indie rock band 'The Road' and an international award-winning songwriter.
• Suzy MacWatters: an American actress known for her roles in the films "A Different World" and "Pretty In Pink."
• Charles MacWatters: a former member of the United States Army Special Forces and the author of the book "The Few and the Proud: Recruiting for the Regular Army in an Unregular War."
• Joe MacWatters: a renowned skyscraper builder and engineer whose most notable project is the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada.
• Samantha MacWatters: a successful businesswoman who made her fortune in real estate development.
• Amber MacWatters: a professional skier and champion of the US Ski Team.
• Chris MacWatters: a renowned yachtsman who has competed in many international competitions including the America's Cup.
• Alexander MacWatters: a successful entrepreneur and inspirational leader whose work has been celebrated worldwide.
• Piper MacWatters: a country music singer-songwriter who is best known for her hit single "Heartache All Around."

Other surnames

MacWattie