Encyclopedia Entry: McKim

McKim is a Scottish and Northern Irish surname of Celtic origin. The name is derived from the Gaelic term "Mac Shim," which translates to "son of Simon." This ancient name has a rich history and deep roots in the British Isles.

Origin and Meaning: The McKim surname traces its roots to Scotland and Northern Ireland, where it is commonly found. The "Mac" prefix signifies "son of," indicating descent from an ancestor named Simon. Simon is a common given name of Hebrew origin, meaning "listener" or "hearing." The name Simon has been around for centuries, and its usage in Scotland and Ireland has given rise to surnames like McKim.

Distribution and Variations: The surname McKim is most prevalent in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with concentrations in regions such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Belfast, and Antrim. Variations of the name include MacKim and M'Kim. Over the centuries, McKim families may have migrated to other parts of the United Kingdom or overseas, leading to a dispersal of the surname.

Notable Bearers: The McKim surname has been borne by various notable individuals throughout history. One prominent figure is architect Charles Follen McKim (1847-1909), who co-founded the renowned architectural firm McKim, Mead & White in New York City. Charles Follen McKim's contributions to American architecture have left a lasting impact on the built environment of the United States.

Legacy: The McKim surname continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a connection to the ancient Celtic roots of Scotland and Northern Ireland. Many bearers of the name take pride in their heritage and celebrate the cultural legacy associated with the McKim surname.

In conclusion, the surname McKim holds a special place in the tapestry of British names, reflecting a blend of Celtic origins and historical significance. From its early roots to contemporary bearers, the McKim name remains an enduring symbol of lineage and tradition in the British Isles.

There are approximately 419 people named McKim in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named McKim.

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
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Steven
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Agnes
  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Diane
  • Elizabeth
  • Grace
  • Gwendoline
  • Julie
  • Laura
  • Margaret
  • Natasha
  • Sally
  • Sarah
  • Sharon

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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