Surname MacCraw - Meaning and Origin
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MacCraw: What does the surname MacCraw mean?
The surname MacCraw is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic words "mac" meaning "son of" and "craw" which refers to "crow" or "raven". Clan MacCraw was primarily based in the Scottish Highlands. Mapping the association of the surname to a crow or raven, it would suggest that the original bearer of this name may have been associated with the characteristics of a crow or raven - perhaps wise, intelligent or strong. However, the specific meaning of such surnames can sometimes be lost in history, and may vary based on regional differences and dialects. It's also worth noting that many such names have evolved in spelling and pronunciation over centuries, owing to migration and the influence of different languages and cultures. Therefore, MacCraw could potentially have variations among different families and regions.
Order DNA origin analysisMacCraw: Where does the name MacCraw come from?
The last name MacCraw is of Scottish origin. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name "Mac Conchradha", which means "son of Cú Chruad", an old personal name composed of the elements "cú" meaning hound, and a second element, possibly "cruaidh" meaning hardy or tough.
The name traces back to various clans in the lowlands and highlands of Scotland. However, please note that there might be variations in the spelling of this last name such as McCraw or MacCrae depending on geography and regional accents.
In contemporary times, the surname MacCraw, or its variations, can be found spread across the United Kingdom, Scotland, the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand among descendants of Scottish emigrants. The exact prevalence of the surname MacCraw can vary and it is not considered a common last name. It is worth noting that information on the prevalence of specific surnames can change due to shifts in population demographics over time.
Variations of the surname MacCraw
The surname MacCraw is of Scottish origin. The name, primarily found in the Hebrides islands and the west coast of Scotland, has several variants and spellings, reflecting different regional vernaculars and languages including Gaelic and English. Some of the most common variations of MacCraw include McCraw, MacCrae, MacRae, McCrae, Rae, and Ray.
The surname emerged from the Gaelic Mac Raith or Mac Rath, meaning "son of grace" or "prosperity". This name was Anglicized over time, resulting in variations like MacCrae or McCrae. The shortened form of Rae also became a surname in its own right.
In addition, as with many Scottish surnames, the prefix "Mac" (meaning "son of") can sometimes be dropped, resulting in variants like Craw, Crae, or Rae.
For the same reason, there are also surnames from different parts of Scotland that could be considered variants because they have the same meaning or derivation. For instance, the surname Grace in other parts of Scotland might also be considered a variant of MacCraw given the shared meaning.
So, while MacCraw is the primary spelling, there are numerous variants and related surnames that hold the same origin.
Famous people with the name MacCraw
- Emile MacCraw: Emile MacCraw is a pageant queen, activist, and actress who has been featured in several TV shows, magazines, and health-related publications. She is known for helping to empower, inspire, and educate women on healthy lifestyles, beauty, and wellness.
- Robert MacCraw: Robert MacCraw is a British actor best known for his roles in the film The Last Witch Hunter and TV series Top of the Lake. He has also appeared in films such as Albergue Español, The Curse of Sleeping Beauty, and London Boulevard.
- Athena MacCraw: Athena MacCraw is a Canadian actress known for her roles in movies such as X-Men, Rogue, The Magnificent Seven, and The Fault in Our Stars. She is also a filmmaker, having directed the film Chasing Women.
- Eoin MacCraw: Eoin MacCraw is an Irish actor who has appeared in movies such as Jane Eyre and The Blue Room. He is also known for his roles in short films and TV shows, such as The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones.
- Pertti MacCraw: Pertti MacCraw is a Finnish actor who has appeared in movies such as The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and Good Kill. He is also known for his roles in stage productions, including the musical The Little Prince.
- Ronan MacCraw: Ronan MacCraw is an Irish musician and singer who has recorded several albums and toured extensively. He is known for his modern Irish folk music and has been nominated for several awards.
- Rose MacCraw: Rose MacCraw is an Australian model and beauty pageant titleholder who won the Miss Universe Australia title in 2020. She is also a trained archeologist and a passionate environmental advocate.