MACLAINE
Also recorded as Mac Laine, Maclaine
MacLaine
Pronunciation: /məˈkleɪn/
Origin: MacLaine is a Scottish and Irish surname of Gaelic origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name "Mac Gille Eathain," meaning "son of the servant of Saint John."
History: The MacLaine surname has a long history, with records dating back to medieval times in Scotland and Ireland. The name is associated with several notable figures, including Sir Fitzroy Maclean, a renowned Scottish soldier and politician. The MacLaine clan is also associated with the Isle of Mull in Scotland, where they held lands and played a significant role in the local community.
Variants: Variants of the MacLaine surname include MacLean, MacLean, MacLane, and McLain.
Notable People:
- Shirley MacLaine (b. 1934): American actress, author, and dancer, known for her roles in films such as "The Apartment" and "Terms of Endearment."
- Sir Fitzroy Maclean (1911-1996): British soldier, writer, and politician, known for his exploits during World War II and his diplomatic career.
- Andrew MacLaine (b. 1980): Scottish singer-songwriter known for his folk-inspired music.
Distribution: The MacLaine surname is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in regions such as Argyll and Bute. It is also present in Ireland, where it is often spelled as MacClean or MacClane.
Coat of Arms: The MacLaine coat of arms typically features symbols associated with strength, loyalty, and heritage. It may include elements such as a lion rampant, a shield, and a motto reflecting the values of the clan.
References:
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- MacLysaght, E. (1985). The Surnames of Ireland. Irish Academic Press.
There are approximately 158 people named MacLaine in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named MacLaine.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alasdair
- Ali
- Andrew
- Angus
- Donald
- Grant
- Hector
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Peter
Female
- Alison
- Anna
- Catriona
- Edwina
- Helen
- Honor
- Joanna
- Katie
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.