MCLEOD
Also recorded as M'Cleod, Mc Leod, Mcleod
McLeod
McLeod is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the personal name 'Ljotr', meaning 'ugly'. The name is most commonly found in Scotland, particularly in the Highlands and Islands.
Origin and History
The McLeod clan is one of the oldest and most distinguished Highland clans, tracing its ancestry back to Leod, who lived in the 13th century. Leod was a descendant of the Norse king Harald the Fairhair, who established his rule over the Western Isles.
The clan's traditional stronghold is on the Isle of Skye, where Dunvegan Castle has been the seat of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. The clan played a significant role in Scottish history, with its members often involved in battles and conflicts across the Highlands.
Notable Individuals
Numerous individuals bearing the surname McLeod have left their mark on various fields. Some notable figures include:
- Norman McLeod - A Scottish-born American religious leader who founded the town of Goderich in the state of Iowa, USA.
- MacLeod of Lewis - A renowned 19th-century Scottish poet known for his works in Gaelic literature.
- Sheena McLeod - An accomplished British scientist known for her research in environmental conservation.
Modern Day
Today, the surname McLeod can be found across the United Kingdom, as well as in countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, where descendants of the clan have settled. The clan continues to maintain a strong sense of identity and pride in their heritage, with many individuals actively involved in cultural events and gatherings.
Overall, the surname McLeod holds a significant place in Scottish history and continues to be an enduring symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage.
There are approximately 15,448 people named McLeod in the UK. That makes it the 570th most common surname in Britain. Around 237 in a million people in Britain are named McLeod.
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
- Donald
- Ian
- James
- John
- Robert
- Stuart
- William
Female
- Alison
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Helen
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- McCleod
- MacLeod
- Macleaod
- Maccleod
- Mcloed
- Maccloud
- Macglade
- Mackelt
- Maclead
- Macledd
- Macleoid
- Macleoud
- Maclod
- Macloed
- Maclot
- Macloud
- Magaldi
- Magalotti
- Maglad
- Magold
- Maklad
- Mccloat
- Mccloud
- Mccloude
- Mcglade
- Mcglead
- Mclaud
- Mclead
- Mcleoad
- Mcleods
- Mcleoud
- Mcload
- Mclood
- Mcloud
- Mcloyd
- Miclotte
- Migault
- Miglett
- Miglietta
- Miglietti
- Mockelt
- Muckalt
- Muckelt
- Macledo
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.