Surname Magee - Meaning and Origin

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J. Magee

Magee: What does the surname Magee mean?

The surname Magee is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic term "Mac Aodha", which translates to "son of Aodh". The name "Aodh" refers to the ancient Celtic god of the sun, often anglicized as "Hugh". Therefore, the surname Magee generally signifies being a "son of Hugh". The Magee family history traces back to medieval times in counties Donegal and Antrim in Ireland. Over time, through Irish emigration, the name has spread to many parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. Evidence of the surname's importance can be found in the many places named after individuals with the Magee surname, including Magee's Corner in San Diego and Magee Street in Arizona, USA. Today, those bearing the Magee surname continue to reflect their rich Irish ancestry.

Magee: Where does the name Magee come from?

The surname Magee originates from Gaelic Ireland, from the Gaelic word "Mac Aodh" which translates to "son of Aodh." Aodh was an ancient personal name, widely popular in olden times, usually associated with the Celtic god of fire. Therefore, the meaning of Magee can be inferred as "son of fire."

Along the course of history, as people of Irish origin migrated, the name Magee has spread to different corners of the world. However, it still remains most common in Ireland. In addition to Ireland, the Magee surname is also prevalent in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom due to historical migrations. In these places, Magee is not among the most common surnames, but it is certainly identifiable as a name of Irish ancestry.

Variations of the surname Magee

Magee is an Irish surname that has several variations, mainly due to changes in pronunciation, regional accents and Anglicization over the centuries. It's derived from the Gaelic "Mag Aodha," meaning 'son of Aodha' (a personal name usually Anglicized as 'Hugh').

Common variant spellings of the name include McGee, MacGee, and Maggee. Other variants, less commonly used, include McGehee, MacGea, MacGhee, M'Gie, and M'Ghie.

Unique to the Northern region of Ireland, the spelling can also be McGeagh or McGeachy. In Scotland, where the surname also has a strong presence, it can be found as Magey, M'Ghie, or M'Gee.

As with many surnames, they can often be prefixed with “O”, meaning 'descendant of', or “Mac” or "Mc", meaning 'son of'. Therefore O'Magee, O'McGee or Mackgee are other possible variations.

Due to ongoing Anglicization and international migration, the surname has further evolved. So in certain parts of the world, particularly in America and Canada, the surname may have transformed significantly. It's also worth mentioning that some Magees may have shortened their name to Gee or Ghee over time.

Famous people with the name Magee

• Toby Magee: A notable British fashion photographer.
• Patrick Magee: Late British actor known for roles in movies like "A Clockwork Orange" and "Barry Lyndon."
• Dominic Magee: An American professional basketball player.
• Ted Magee: Retired Canadian professional ice hockey player.
• David Magee: An American screenwriter whose work includes "Life of Pi" and "Finding Neverland."
• Josh Magee: Irish professional badminton player.
• Zara Magee: A retired Australian netballer.
• Aaron Magee: Irish Gaelic footballer.
• David McWilliams (Magee): Northern Irish singer, songwriter, and guitarist.
• Mark Magee: Scottish footballer currently playing for Rothes FC.
• Julianne Magee: Northern Irish camogie player.
• Derek Magee: Irish professional golfer.
• Sam Magee: Irish professional badminton player, brother of Josh Magee.
• Susan Magee: American artist and film director.
• Karl Magee: British historian and archivist.
• Mitchell Magee: American physicist.
• John Gillespie Magee Jr.: American aviator and poet, author of "High Flight".
• Susan Elia MacNeal (Magee): American author of the Maggie Hope series.

Other surnames

MagellanMagennisMagerMagerfleischMagerhansMagerkohlMagerlMägerlMagerleMägerleMägerleinMagersMagersuppMagersuppeMagertMägert