MCCOWAN
Also recorded as Mc Cowan, Mccowan
McCowan
McCowan is a Scottish and Irish surname that is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Eoghain" or "Mac Eoghan", meaning "son of Eoghan". The name Eoghan itself is of ancient Gaelic origin, related to the god Aengus from Irish mythology, and translates to "born of yew".
Origins
The McCowan surname is most commonly found in Scotland and Ireland, reflecting the historical connections between the two countries. The earliest recordings of the name date back to the medieval period, with variations such as MacCowan, McCouan, and McCown also appearing in records over time.
Distribution
Like many surnames of Celtic origin, McCowan is most prevalent in regions with strong Gaelic heritage, particularly in Scotland and Ireland. However, due to emigration patterns in the 19th and 20th centuries, McCowan descendants can be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Individuals
While not as prominent as some other surnames, McCowan has been borne by individuals who have made notable contributions in various fields, from academia and arts to politics and sports.
Variants
Over the centuries, the spelling of the surname McCowan has evolved, leading to variants such as MacCowan, McCouan, and McCown. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects and phonetic changes over time.
Crest and Motto
As with many Scottish and Irish surnames, some branches of the McCowan family may have their own unique coat of arms and motto, reflecting their ancestry and heritage. These heraldic symbols are often passed down through generations as part of the family's legacy.
In conclusion, the surname McCowan carries a rich history rooted in Gaelic culture and mythology, with its bearers forming part of the diverse tapestry of British and Irish heritage.
There are approximately 494 people named McCowan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named McCowan.
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
- Alistair
- Andrew
- David
- George
- Ian
- James
- John
- Paul
- Thomas
Female
- Alison
- Angela
- Anna
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Jacqueline
- Jean
- Joanne
- Katie
- Margaret
- Martha
- Mary
- Sarah
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.