MCNIVEN
Also recorded as Mc Niven, Mcniven
McNiven
McNiven is a surname of Scottish origin that is particularly prevalent in Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland. The name is of ancient Gaelic origin, deriving from the personal name 'Naoimhín', which means 'little saint' in Gaelic. Over the centuries, the surname McNiven has evolved in various spellings, including McNeive, MacNeeve, and McNie.
Origins
The McNiven surname can be traced back to the Scottish Highlands, where clans and tartans played a significant role in defining social structure. McNiven is believed to be associated with the Clan MacNeacail (MacNicol), a Highland clan that held lands in the Isle of Skye. The clan's motto was "Virtue Mine Honour."
Distribution and Popularity
The McNiven surname has had a long history in Scotland, with many individuals with this surname found in regions such as Argyll, Inverness, and Ayrshire. Over time, some McNivens are known to have migrated to other parts of the world, including Northern Ireland, Canada, and the United States, spreading the name beyond its Scottish origins.
Notable Individuals
While the McNiven surname may not be as common as some other Scottish surnames, there have been notable individuals who have borne this name. These include professionals in various fields, such as academia, the arts, and business. Each of these individuals contributes to the rich tapestry of history associated with the McNiven surname.
In summary, the McNiven surname is a distinctive part of Scottish heritage, tracing its origins to the Gaelic-speaking regions of Scotland. Its history is woven into the fabric of Scottish clans and the broader cultural landscape of the country, making it a name of significance and importance to those who bear it.
There are approximately 923 people named McNiven in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,837th most common surname in Britain. Around 14 in a million people in Britain are named McNiven.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Alexander
- Andrew
- Campbell
- David
- Donald
- Duncan
- Ian
- James
- John
- Michael
- Neil
- Peter
- William
Female
- Anne
- Caroline
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Jane
- Janet
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Ruth
- Susan