MCLEISH

Also recorded as Mc Leish, Mcleish

McLeish

McLeish is a Scottish surname of Old Gaelic origin. The name is derived from the Gaelic MacGille Ìosa, which translates to "son of the servant of Jesus". The McLeish family name is thought to have originated in the region of Lorn in Argyllshire.

Origins and History

The McLeish clan is associated with the Scottish Highlands, particularly in areas such as Argyllshire, Perthshire, and Inverness. The clan is believed to have descended from a servant of the Church, hence the reference to Jesus in the surname. The McLeish family was said to have been connected to important figures in Scottish history.

Distribution and Variations

The surname McLeish is predominantly found in Scotland and is less common in other parts of the United Kingdom or the world. Variations of the surname can include MacLeish, McAleese, and MacLejus, reflecting the historical evolution of the name over time.

Notable Individuals

1. Sir Hector McLeish:

  • A prominent figure in Scottish politics, serving as a Member of Parliament and later as a Cabinet Minister.

2. Fiona McLeish:

  • Renowned artist known for her landscape paintings of the Scottish Highlands.

3. Dr. Robert McLeish:

  • Distinguished scientist and researcher in the field of marine biology.

Cultural Significance

The McLeish surname holds historical significance in Scotland, with many individuals proud of their heritage and family connections to the clan. The name has been passed down through generations, keeping alive the legacy of the McLeish family.

In conclusion, the McLeish surname carries with it a rich history and a sense of ancestry rooted in the Scottish Highlands. The name's origins in Gaelic tradition and its association with significant figures in various fields make it a notable part of Scotland's cultural tapestry.

There are approximately 2,724 people named McLeish in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,280th most common surname in Britain. Around 42 in a million people in Britain are named McLeish.

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

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Agnes
  • Anne
  • Barbara
  • Brenda
  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Helen
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Marie
  • Mary
  • Susan
  • Tracy

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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