MACKINNON

Also recorded as Mac Kinnon, Mackinnon

MacKinnon

MacKinnon is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, meaning "son of the fair born." The name is believed to have originated from the Gaelic word "MacFhionghuin," which refers to the son of Fingon, a common given name in medieval Scotland.

History

The MacKinnon clan is associated with the western Highlands of Scotland, particularly the Isle of Skye. They were known for their loyalty to the Clan Donald and played an active role in the turbulent history of the region. The Clan MacKinnon supported the Jacobite cause during the uprisings of the 17th and 18th centuries.

Notable Individuals

  • George MacKinnon, 1st Baron MacKinnon - A prominent British businessman and philanthropist, known for his contributions to maritime commerce and colonial development in the 19th century.

  • Douglas MacKinnon - A contemporary Scottish novelist, famous for his works exploring themes of identity and tradition in modern Scotland.

  • Mhairi MacKinnon - An accomplished Gaelic singer and cultural ambassador, promoting traditional Scottish music worldwide.

Legacy

The MacKinnon surname continues to be prevalent in Scotland and among the Scottish diaspora around the world. The clan's tartan, featuring hues of green, blue, and yellow, is a symbol of their heritage and proud history. Today, individuals bearing the MacKinnon name can be found across various professions, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Scotland and beyond.

There are approximately 6,617 people named MacKinnon in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,425th most common surname in Britain. Around 102 in a million people in Britain are named MacKinnon.

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
  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Donald
  • Iain
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Neil

Female

  • Alison
  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Catriona
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Helen
  • Jane
  • Margaret
  • Mary

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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