Smylie

Origin and Meaning

Smylie is an anglicised form of the Scottish surname Mac an Oighre, meaning "son of the heir". The name originates from Scotland and is associated with the Scottish clan Macnaghten.

History and Distribution

The surname Smylie has a long history in Scotland, with records of the name dating back to medieval times. The Macnaghten clan, to which Smylie is affiliated, has its roots in Argyll and the surrounding areas of Scotland. The surname Smylie has also been recorded in Northern Ireland, particularly in counties Antrim and Down, as a result of Scottish migration to Ireland.

Notable Individuals

  • Major-General Sir Hugh Stockwell Smylie: A distinguished British Army officer who served during World War II and received several military honours for his bravery and leadership.

  • Dame Susan Smylie: A renowned Scottish author and historian, known for her works on Scottish folklore and traditions.

Modern Distribution

Today, the surname Smylie is relatively rare but can be found in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and other parts of the United Kingdom. It may also be present in other English-speaking countries due to migration and diaspora.

Variants

Variants of the surname Smylie include Smiley, Smyly, and similar forms that reflect the anglicised spelling of the original Gaelic name Mac an Oighre.

Coat of Arms

The Macnaghten clan, with which Smylie is associated, has a distinctive coat of arms featuring a shield and crest adorned with symbols of Scottish heritage and family history.

Overall, the surname Smylie has a rich history and is linked to the noble traditions of Scotland and its people.

There are approximately 447 people named Smylie in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Smylie.

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
  • Andrew
  • Barry
  • Darren
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Kevin
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Robert
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Ann
  • Claire
  • Deborah
  • Elaine
  • Elizabeth
  • Gillian
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Maureen
  • Patricia
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Sharon

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