MCKENZIE
Also recorded as Mc Kenzie, Mc'Kenzie, Mc'kenzie, Mckenzie
McKenzie
Origin and Meaning: McKenzie is a Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic name "MacCoinnich," meaning "son of Coinneach." The name Coinneach itself is a Gaelic name that translates to "fair" or "comely."
History: The McKenzie surname has ancient roots in Scotland, particularly in the Scottish Highlands. The MacKenzies were a prominent clan in this region, known for their fierce loyalty and military prowess. The clan is said to descend from the Gaelic prince Kenneth MacAlpin, who became the first King of the Picts and Scots in the 9th century.
Variations and Spelling: Variations of the McKenzie surname include MacKenzie, Mackenzie, and McCannich. Over time, the spelling of the name has evolved, leading to various versions being used by different branches of the clan.
Notable Individuals:
- Sir Kenneth McKenzie: A historical figure who played a key role in the politics of medieval Scotland.
- Donald McKenzie: A renowned scholar and author specializing in Scottish history and culture.
- Ewan MacKenzie: A contemporary musician known for his contributions to traditional Scottish music.
Popularity: The McKenzie surname has spread beyond Scotland and is now common in English-speaking countries worldwide. It is especially prevalent in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where Scottish immigrants have settled over the centuries.
Coat of Arms: The McKenzie clan is associated with a distinctive coat of arms that features symbols such as the stag's head, which symbolizes strength and fortitude, and the battle cry "Tulach Ard," meaning "the high hill." These symbols reflect the clan's history and values.
Legacy: Today, the McKenzie surname continues to be proudly carried by individuals of Scottish descent, serving as a reminder of the rich history and heritage of the Scottish Highlands. The name evokes images of rugged landscapes, ancient castles, and a proud warrior tradition that has endured through the centuries.
References:
- "The Clans, Septs, and Regiments of the Scottish Highlands" by Sir Thomas Innes of Learney.
- "The History of Scottish Surnames" by Alexander Grant.
There are approximately 27,184 people named McKenzie in the UK. That makes it the 296th most common surname in Britain. Around 417 in a million people in Britain are named McKenzie.
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
- Alexander
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Michael
- Robert
- Scott
- William
Female
- Alison
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Janet
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- MacKenzie
- Macenzie
- Mckenize
- Mckenzi
- Mackenize
- Mackensey
- Mackensie
- Mackenze
- Mackenzee
- Mackenzey
- Mackenzi
- Mackenzies
- Mackenzy
- Mackinzie
- Makenzie
- Mcckenzie
- Mcenzie
- Mchenzie
- Mckengie
- Mckennzie
- Mckenrie
- Mckensey
- Mckensie
- Mckenze
- Mckenzey
- Mckenzies
- Mckenzy
- Mckinsie
- Mckinzey
- Mckinzie
- Mcknzie
- Meckenzie
- Machenzie
- Mackencie
- Mackinze
- Makinzie
- Mckenne
- Mckennie
- McCance
- McGuinness
- Meakins
- Meekins
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.