MCGILLIVRAY

Also recorded as Mc Gillivray, Mcgillivray

McGillivray

McGillivray is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the personal name 'Mac Gille Bhrath' which means 'son of the servant of judgment'. The surname is primarily associated with the Scottish Highlands and has historical ties to the Clan MacGillivray.

Origins:

The MacGillivrays were a prominent clan in the Scottish Highlands, particularly in Inverness-shire and Perthshire. They were known for their fierce loyalty and bravery in battle. The surname McGillivray can also be found in other parts of Scotland and in regions where Scottish immigrants settled, such as Canada and the United States.

Notable Individuals:

  • Alexander McGillivray (c. 1750-1793) - A prominent leader of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation in what is now the southeastern United States. McGillivray played a key role in diplomacy and negotiations with the United States government.
  • Angus McGillivray (1895-1971) - A Scottish footballer who played for several clubs during the early 20th century, including Heart of Midlothian and Falkirk.
  • John McGillivray (1800-1853) - A Scottish explorer and naturalist who conducted expeditions in Australia and the South Pacific, contributing to the understanding of the flora and fauna of the region.

Modern Day:

Today, the surname McGillivray is found in various countries, with descendants of Scottish immigrants proudly bearing the name. The clan system in Scotland has evolved over the centuries, but many individuals with the surname McGillivray still maintain a strong connection to their heritage and history. The McGillivray name continues to be passed down through generations, keeping the traditions and legacy of the clan alive.

There are approximately 1,651 people named McGillivray in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,945th most common surname in Britain. Around 25 in a million people in Britain are named McGillivray.

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
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Angela
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Helen
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Shirley

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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