MCPHAIL
Also recorded as Mc Phail, Mc'Phail, Mc'phail, Mcphail
Encyclopedia Entry: McPhail
McPhail is a Scottish Gaelic surname that originated from the ancient Gaelic name "MacPhail", meaning 'son of Paul'. The name can be traced back to the Western Isles of Scotland, particularly to the Isle of Islay and the Argyll region.
Origins and History
The McPhail surname is of patronymic origin, indicating descent from an individual named Paul. It is believed that the name was first used as a hereditary surname in the Scottish Highlands during the Middle Ages. The McPhail clan was associated with the Campbell clan, with the two families sharing strong bonds in history.
Distribution and Variants
Over the centuries, the McPhail surname has spread beyond Scotland to other parts of the United Kingdom and the world. Variants of the surname include MacPhail, McFail, and MacPhaill. Today, individuals with the surname McPhail can be found in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Individuals
There have been notable individuals with the McPhail surname who have made significant contributions in various fields. These include:
-
John McPhail - A Scottish film director known for his work on the popular films "Anna and the Apocalypse" and "Where Do We Go from Here?".
-
Jamie McPhail - A prominent Australian scientist who has conducted research in the field of marine biology, particularly focusing on coral reef ecosystems.
Heraldic Significance
The McPhail surname is associated with its own heraldic symbols and coat of arms, reflecting the clan's ancestral ties and history. The coat of arms typically features symbols such as thistles, a saltire cross, and other traditional Scottish motifs.
In conclusion, the McPhail surname holds a rich history and heritage, rooted in Scottish Gaelic tradition. It continues to be a part of the diverse tapestry of British surnames, embodying a sense of identity and lineage for individuals bearing the name.
There are approximately 2,843 people named McPhail in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,139th most common surname in Britain. Around 44 in a million people in Britain are named McPhail.
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
- Colin
- David
- Donald
- Ian
- James
- John
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Alison
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Jacqueline
- Jean
- Jennifer
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary