McVay

McVay is a Scottish and Irish surname with roots in both countries. It is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Dhuibhshith, meaning "son of the dark fairy."

Origin

The McVay surname originates from the Gaelic Mac Dhuibhshith, which evolved into Mac Dhùbhshíth in Scottish Gaelic. Over time, this name was Anglicised to McVay in both Scotland and Ireland.

Distribution

The McVay surname is found predominantly in Scotland and Ireland, with some branches of the family also spreading to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.

Notable People

  • John McVay (b. 1930): British television producer and executive known for his work on iconic shows such as "Doctor Who" and "Dad's Army."
  • Rachel McVay (b. 1985): Scottish singer-songwriter whose folk-inspired music has garnered critical acclaim in the UK music scene.
  • Murray McVay (b. 1972): Irish author and historian renowned for his research on Celtic folklore and mythology.

Legacy

The McVay surname holds significance in Scottish and Irish history, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of both nations. Today, individuals bearing the McVay name continue to contribute to various fields, preserving and honouring their ancestral legacy.

There are approximately 751 people named McVay in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,206th most common surname in Britain. Around 12 in a million people in Britain are named McVay.

Surname type: From name of parent

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Philip
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Thomas

Female

  • Adele
  • Amanda
  • Catherine
  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Eileen
  • Jacqueline
  • Jodie
  • Laura
  • Lucy
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Susan

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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