As described in historical dictionaries

An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names (1857)

(origin: Celtic or Gaelic.) The son of a dog; figuratively, the son of a champion. The Britons, Celts, and Gauls, applied the names of various animals to their heroes, indicative of strength, endurance, courage, or swiftness. This name is derived from Mac, son, and cu, kei, or ki, a wolf-dog. The common hound was called Gayer.

Arthur, William (1857) An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names. New York: Sheldon, Blakeman. Public Domain.


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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.