MACAULAY
Also recorded as Mac Aulay, MacAulay
MacAulay
MacAulay is a Scottish and Irish surname of Gaelic origin. The name is derived from the Gaelic Mac Amhalghaidh, meaning "son of Aulay". The Gaelic personal name Aulay is believed to be derived from the Old Norse name Olaf.
The MacAulay clan originated in the ancient Scottish kingdom of Dalriada, which encompassed parts of modern-day western Scotland and northeastern Ireland. The clan held lands in Argyll, on the western coast of Scotland, and was known for its strong connections to the MacDonald Lords of the Isles.
The MacAulays played a significant role in Scottish history, participating in various military and political events. They were loyal supporters of the Scottish crown and were involved in conflicts with rival clans such as the Campbells and the MacLeans.
Over time, branches of the MacAulay clan spread to different parts of Scotland and Ireland, leading to the dispersal of individuals bearing the MacAulay surname. Today, individuals with the surname MacAulay can be found across the United Kingdom and in various other parts of the world, particularly in countries with a significant Scottish or Irish diaspora.
Notable individuals with the surname MacAulay include historian and essayist Thomas Babington Macaulay, whose works had a profound impact on British historiography, and actress Rose MacAulay, known for her contributions to English literature.
The MacAulay surname continues to be borne by numerous individuals, preserving the legacy and heritage of this ancient Scottish and Irish clan.
There are approximately 4,481 people named Macaulay in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,094th most common surname in Britain. Around 69 in a million people in Britain are named Macaulay.
Surname type: From name of parent
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- Donald
- Ian
- James
- John
- Kenneth
- Robert
- William
Female
- Alison
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Jean
- Laura
- Louise
- Margaret
- Mary
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.