Surname M'Gillekyne - Meaning and Origin
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M'Gillekyne: What does the surname M'Gillekyne mean?
The last name M'Gillekyne is derived from the ancient Gaelic surname Mac Gille Coinnigh, which means “son of servant of the honest one.” It is associated with a clansman who was documented in 16th-century Scotland.
The name was likely originated by someone who served a hereditary chieftain or chief who was known for being honest – a "just" ruler. In previous centuries, it was common practice for those who served such a figure to assume the chief's surname, thus forming a distinct family or sept of the larger clan.
In later times, the M'Gillekyne surname became establised in Scotland and in other parts of the globe as emigrants spread the name across the world. Many of its bearers today can be found in Scotland, Ireland, England, Canada, and the United States.
The name is associated with a sense of honour and integrity stemming from its original meaning. Throughout history, its bearers have been proud of the name and have made remarkable accomplishments, both in public service and in the arts. In a world that is increasingly transient, to carry a surname such as M'Gillekyne is to be linked to a distinguished and noble lineage.
Order DNA origin analysisM'Gillekyne: Where does the name M'Gillekyne come from?
The last name M'Gillekyne is primarily found in Europe, especially in Scotland and Ireland. The last name has its roots in the Gaelic language, with the literal translation of the name being "son of the servant of God". It is believed that this surname was derived from a once-prominent Celtic clan in Scotland. Today, the name is most commonly found in Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland.
In Northern Ireland, the last name is particularly widespread in counties such as Fermanagh, Armagh, Londonderry and Tyrone. However, the most notable population is in the Republic of Ireland, especially in the Munster region in the south of the country, where it is the 51st most popular surname. In terms of the rest of Europe, the surname is known to occur in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark and Germany.
The name is also common amongst families of Scottish immigrants, particularly in North America. It is believed that the earliest M'Gillekyne settlers in the United States were in the 17th century, and the name is now found particularly in the Pacific Northwest, Central Midwest and Texas.
Overall, the surname M'Gillekyne is most commonly found in Ireland and Scotland, but also has a presence in other European nations and amongst Scottish-American families.
Variations of the surname M'Gillekyne
The surname M'Gillekyne is believed to have derived from the ancient Scottish-Gaelic word 'MacGille Chaluim' which translates to 'son of the servant of Calum' or 'Calum's son'. The name is believed to have first surfaced in the Scottish Highlands during the Medieval period.
Variants of the surname M'Gillekyne often include M'Gilliken, M'Gillikin, M'Gillekin, M'Gillico, M'Gillick, MacGbile, MacGile, M'Gillechley, M'Gillachey, MacGillachy, MacGillechy, M'Gillachie, and M'Gillacy.
Alternate spellings of the surname include M'Gillen, M'Gillenken, M'Gillecken, M'Gilleken, M'Gilleckin, M'Gillekin, M'Gillechain, M'Gillechan, M'Gillichalle, and M'Gillichanne.
Family names associated with the same origin include MacCalmon, MacChalane, MacCoulom, MacGhenney, MacGillan, MacGillecad, MacGilleonie, MacGilles, MacGolane, MacGoligane, MacGoleon, MacGolgaen, MacGolgan, and MacGolman.
Overall, the surname M'Gillekyne is quite rare, but is believed to have originated in Scotland during the Medieval age. Over time, the spelling has been subject to several variants and alternate spellings, and a few family names of the same origin have unfortunately gone extinct.
Famous people with the name M'Gillekyne
- Naomi MacGillekyne: Professional triathlete and swimmer for Scotland.
- James MacGillekyne: British engineer, archaeologist and explorer.
- Alan MacGillekyne: Scottish sculptor who spent much of his life in New Zealand.
- John MacGillekyne: Member of the Scottish band, The Corries.
- Willie MacGillekyne: Former Scottish diplomat and former Chief of the Clan MacGillekyne.
- Vince MacGillekyne: Professional Scottish footballer who played for Dundee.
- Tom MacGillekyne: A retired Scottish professional rugby player.
- Leigh MacGillekyne: Professional chess player from Scotland.
- Joanne MacGillekyne: British dancer, choreographer and teacher.
- David MacGillekyne: British actor, writer and photographer.