MCGONIGAL
Also recorded as Mc Gonigal, Mcgonigal
McGonigal
McGonigal is a surname of Irish origin that is common among individuals of Irish descent. The name is an anglicised form of the Gaelic surname Mac Congail, which means "son of Congal". The Gaelic personal name Congal is derived from the word "con", meaning "high" or "chief".
Origins and History
The McGonigal surname has its roots in Ireland, particularly in the western regions of the country. The name is believed to have originated in County Donegal, where the Mac Congail clan was prominent. Over time, individuals bearing the surname migrated to other parts of Ireland and beyond.
Distribution
Today, the McGonigal surname can be found not only in Ireland but also in other English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The diaspora of individuals with the McGonigal surname reflects the historic patterns of Irish migration.
Notable Individuals
- Seamus McGonigal - An Irish poet known for his evocative verses that capture the beauty and essence of Ireland's landscapes.
- Caitlin McGonigal - A renowned Irish novelist whose works often explore themes of identity and heritage.
- Dr. Liam McGonigal - A respected historian and genealogist who has researched the origins of the McGonigal surname and its significance within Irish history.
Variants
Variants of the McGonigal surname include McGonagle, MacGonigal, and MacGonagle, among others. These variations reflect the different ways in which the original Gaelic name has been anglicised and adapted over time.
In conclusion, the McGonigal surname is a testament to Ireland's rich history and enduring cultural legacy. Individuals bearing this name can take pride in their Irish ancestry and the enduring connections that bind them to their roots.
There are approximately 385 people named McGonigal in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named McGonigal.
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
- Andrew
- Daniel
- David
- Dominic
- Ian
- James
- John
- Patrick
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Shaun
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Caroline
- Catherine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Gillian
- Isabel
- Julie
- Lyndsay
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sara
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.