MACDONELL

Also recorded as Mac Donell, Macdonell

MacDonell

The surname MacDonell is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Dhomhnaill", meaning "son of Donald". The MacDonell clan is a prominent Scottish Highland clan with a rich history dating back to the 14th century.

The MacDonells are traditionally associated with the Western Highlands of Scotland, particularly in the regions of Lochaber and Glengarry. The clan played a significant role in Scottish history, often involved in clan disputes and battles for power and territory.

One of the most notable figures from the MacDonell clan is Alasdair MacColla, a renowned military commander who fought in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms in the 17th century. The clan's strong military prowess and fierce loyalty to their chiefs earned them a fearsome reputation.

Over the centuries, many branches of the MacDonell clan spread throughout Scotland and beyond, leading to variations in the spelling of the surname, such as MacDonald, McDonell, and MacDonnell.

Today, the MacDonell surname continues to be borne by individuals around the world, with descendants of the clan proudly upholding their heritage through traditions, tartans, and clan associations.

In summary, the MacDonell surname holds a place of honour in Scottish history and genealogy, reflecting a proud and enduring legacy of the Scottish Highland clans.

There are approximately 195 people named MacDonell in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named MacDonell.

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

  • Alan
  • Alasdair
  • Colin
  • Duncan
  • Ewen
  • Garry
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Neil
  • Phil
  • Philip

Female

  • Camilla
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Florence
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Janet
  • Julie
  • Louisa
  • Mairearaid
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Rachel
  • Sandi
  • Vicky

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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