MACSWEEN
Also recorded as Macsween
MacSween
The surname MacSween is of Scottish Gaelic origin, deriving from the principle of 'Mac', meaning 'son of', and the personal name 'Suibhne'. The MacSween clan is believed to be one of the oldest and most distinguished clans in Scotland, with their origins dating back to the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada.
The MacSweens are typically associated with the western coastal regions of Scotland, particularly in Argyll and the Isles. They were known for their involvement in various political and military conflicts throughout the centuries, often aligning themselves with other powerful clans such as the Macdonalds and Campbells.
The clan's historical seat was at Castle Sween in Knapdale, Argyll, which is recognised as one of the earliest stone castles in Scotland. The MacSweens played a significant role in the turbulent history of the region, often finding themselves in disputes with neighbouring clans and rival factions.
Today, the MacSween surname is relatively rare but continues to be borne by descendants of the ancient clan. Many individuals with the surname MacSween can trace their ancestry back to the original clan, and some remain actively engaged in preserving their heritage through various clan associations and events.
Overall, the MacSween surname holds a rich and storied history within Scottish clan culture, reflecting the endurance and resilience of a lineage that has stood the test of time.
There are approximately 685 people named MacSween in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,857th most common surname in Britain. Around 11 in a million people in Britain are named MacSween.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Alasdair
- David
- Donald
- Ewen
- Iain
- James
- John
- Kenneth
- Malcolm
- Murdo
- Norman
- Roderick
Female
- Anna
- Catherine
- Christina
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Joan
- Mairi
- Margaret
- Mary
- Rachel