MCLEAN
Also recorded as Mc Lean, Mc'Lean, Mc'lean, Mclean
McLean
McLean is a surname of Scottish origin which also has notable presence in Ireland and other parts of the United Kingdom. The name is derived from the Gaelic name 'MacGilleEathain', meaning 'son of the servant of Saint John'. The McLean family is believed to have been a sept of the larger Clan MacLean, which originated in the western Scottish Highlands.
History and Origins: The McLean surname can be traced back to the ancient Kingdom of Dal Riata in Scotland, where the Clan MacLean held lands on the Isle of Mull and the Isle of Tiree. The McLeans were traditionally associated with loyalty to the ruling MacDonalds and were known for their warrior-like characteristics. As a result of their involvement in various battles and conflicts, the McLean name acquired a reputation for bravery and resilience.
Migration and Settlement: Over time, some members of the McLean family migrated to other parts of the British Isles, particularly to Ireland. The surname can be found in records across Ireland, and McLean individuals played a role in various historical events within the country. As a result, the McLean name has become part of the cultural and historical tapestry of Ireland as well.
Modern Significance: In contemporary times, individuals bearing the surname McLean can be found in various professions and walks of life. Many McLean descendants have made significant contributions to fields such as academia, politics, arts, and business.
Notable Individuals:
- Sir Fitzroy McLean: A British soldier, diplomat, and author, known for his service during World War II.
- Donald McLean: A Scottish-born New Zealand politician who played a key role in the country's early colonial history.
Overall, the McLean surname represents a proud Scottish heritage with connections to Ireland and the broader United Kingdom. The history and legacy of the McLean family continue to be cherished by many individuals around the world.
There are approximately 30,258 people named McLean in the UK. That makes it the 266th most common surname in Britain. Around 465 in a million people in Britain are named McLean.
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
- Paul
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Laura
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Macclean
- Mclaen
- Mclea
- Mcleane
- Macklain
- Macklan
- Macklean
- Macklin
- Maclain
- Maclaine
- Maclan
- Macland
- Maclane
- Maclean
- Macleanan
- Macleane
- Maclenan
- Maclennan
- Mcclain
- Mcclaine
- Mcclane
- Mcclean
- Mccleane
- Mcclein
- Mcklean
- Mclain
- Mclaine
- Mclan
- Mclane
- Mclaney
- Mclann
- Mcleam
- Mcleanan
- Mcleen
- Mcleman
- Mclenan
- Mclenen
- Mclenna
- Mclennan
- Mclennay
- Mclenny
- Mclenon
- Mcleon
- Mcqullan
- Mackland
- Macleman
- Macolan
- Maculan
- Mcallan
- Mcclaney
- Mcclenan
- Mcclone
- Mclam
- Mclelan
- Mclennen
- Mclennon
- Mcleown
- Mcleran
- McAllen
- McClune
- McCullen
- McGlone
- McGlynn
- McLay
- McQuillan
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.