MAGOWAN
Magowan
Magowan is a Scottish and Irish surname that has its origins in the Gaelic language. The name is an anglicised form of the Gaelic name "Mac Gobhann," which translates to "son of the smith."
Origins
The Magowan surname is predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It is believed to have originated as a surname for the descendants of a family involved in metalworking, particularly blacksmithing, in the Gaelic-speaking regions of Scotland and Ireland.
Distribution
The Magowan surname is relatively rare, with most individuals bearing the name concentrated in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Throughout history, bearers of the Magowan surname have established themselves in various professions and industries, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of their communities.
Notable Individuals
- John Magowan (1935–2019): A renowned Scottish sculptor known for his unique metalwork installations in public spaces.
- Maeve Magowan (b. 1972): An Irish author celebrated for her insightful novels exploring themes of family and identity.
Variants
Due to the anglicisation of the original Gaelic name "Mac Gobhann," the Magowan surname may have variations in spelling, such as "McGowan" or "MacGowan." These variations are often seen in historical documents and records.
Legacy
The Magowan surname carries a legacy of craftsmanship and ingenuity, reflecting the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds to the cultural tapestry of Scotland and Ireland.
References
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 537 people named Magowan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Magowan.
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Paul
- Robert
- Samuel
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elaine
- Elizabeth
- Jane
- Jennifer
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Rachel
- Ruth
- Sarah
- Sharon
Similar and related surnames
- Maccowan
- MacGowan
- Macowan
- Macwan
- Macween
- Magan
- Magann
- Maghan
- Magon
- Magoohan
- Magowen
- Magown
- Magwin
- Makawana
- Makwana
- Mccowan
- Mccowen
- Mcgowan
- Mcgowen
- Mcgowin
- Mcgwen
- Mcgwin
- Mckeowan
- Mckeowen
- Mckeowin
- Mckewan
- Mckewen
- Mckewin
- Mckewon
- Mckowen
- Mckowin
- Mcowan
- Mcowen
- Mcwayne
- Mcwean
- Mcwinnie
- Megowan
- Mgowan
- Mokwena
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.