Surname McLaine - Meaning and Origin
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McLaine: What does the surname McLaine mean?
The surname McLaine is of Scottish origin, specifically from the Gaelic Mac Gille Eathain, translating to "son of the servant of Saint John." It is also understood to mean "son of the servant of (Saint) Eón." The name is linked to the island of Mull in the Hebrides, and some argue that it is a variant of the name MacLean, another prominent Scottish clan name. The spelling of Scottish surnames often changed over centuries based on pronunciation, cultural changes, or migration. Hence, the same original name might have several variations today, including McLaine. This surname is predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland and in countries where Scottish people have migrated, like the United States, Canada, and Australia. Scottish surnames often reflect the profession or the religious or political affiliations of the family, and in this case, it suggests a venerable connection with Saint John, reflecting the family's religious dedication.
Order DNA origin analysisMcLaine: Where does the name McLaine come from?
The last name McLaine is of Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic "Mac Giolla Eain" meaning "son of the servant of St. John". The surname was largely associated with people of Gaelic or Celtic descent. The McLaine surname is frequently found in Ireland but is also common in parts of Scotland due to historical migration and integration between the two regions. In today's times, the surname has spread to other parts of the world due to immigration, colonization, and diaspora. Large populations with the McLaine surname, including its variants such as McLain or McLane, can be found in the United States and Canada. However, it is still most prevalent in Ireland and Scotland.
Variations of the surname McLaine
The surname McLaine is primarily Scottish in origin and is a variant of the name McLean. There are multiple spellings and variations of this surname due to differences in regional pronunciation, translation, and individual preference. These variations include MacLaine, MacLean, MacLain, McClain, McLain, McLein, McLine and McClaine.
The name is derived from the Gaelic MacGille Eathain which means "son of the servant of Saint John." The MacLean clan is one of the oldest clans in the Highlands of Scotland, dating back to the 13th century.
The surname also has branches across the world due to immigration, especially in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia, leading to further variations of the name. Notably, in the United States the spelling variants McClain and McLain are often used.
Despite the variety in spellings, these surnames share a common origin relating to the MacLean clan, tying them to a rich, historical lineage in Scotland.
Famous people with the name McLaine
- Shirley MacLaine: Academy Award-winning actress, activist, and author.
- Bruce MacLaine: Scottish actor, director, writer, lawyer, and public speaker.
- Conner MacLaine: Irish actor known for his work in films including Jason Bourne and Rogue One.
- Danny MacLaine: New Zealand actor and television presenter.
- Ed MacLaine: Australian actor, writer, and director.
- Finlay MacLaine: Canadian actor, known for his roles in Smallville and Supernatural.
- Jerry MacLaine: American comedian and television writer, creator of the hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond.
- Michael MacLaine: British actor, best known for his role in Coronation Street.
- Orla MacLaine: Irish actress, best known for her appearances in The Tudors and Primeval.
- Archie McLein: Scottish actor, known for his roles as George Cleghorn in The Bill and Will Brennan in Waterloo Road.