Surname MacEory - Meaning and Origin
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MacEory: What does the surname MacEory mean?
The surname MacEory, also spelled MacEochy and MacEoghain, is an Irish surname of Gaelic origin, which literally translates as “son of Eocha/Eoghan”. The prefix mac (or “ma” or “mhic”) is found in many Irish surnames and is an indication of a patronymic, or name derived from an ancestor's personal name. The name itself is derived from the Gaelic Eocha/Eoghan, which is a personal name believed to be derived from a leading chief or prince of the O’Neill family, who were rulers of the now defunct kingdom of Tír Eoghain (in present-day Ireland).
The name is most prominently associated with the O'Neill dynasty, who held rulership over the region of Tír Eoghain and were one of the most powerful ruling families in Ireland at the time of their extinction in the 1600's. The O'Neill family had a long, complicated history in the area, and the name MacEory (or variants) is likely to originate with them.
The name also appears in many other forms, including McGhaeny, MacGeough, and McGeowdy. It is also commonly found all over Ireland, due to the O'Neill dynasty's sprawling power and influence.
Today, the surname is a proud reminder of the original O'Neill dynasty, who reigned over Tír Eoghain for centuries. It has since become a common surname in many countries, and a source of pride for many Irish people - particularly those with ties to the old O'Neill dynasty.
Order DNA origin analysisMacEory: Where does the name MacEory come from?
The last name MacEory is most commonly found today in the Isle of Man, Ireland, Scotland, and England, as well as some parts of the United States. It's believed to be a Scottish and Irish version of the name MacGill-Eoin, a Gaelic name that means "son of the follower of St. John."
The MacEory surname is first found in the Isle of Man, an island located between England and Ireland in the Irish Sea. It has been suggested that the origins of the MacEory family date back to this location. The Clan Mac family of the Isle of Man can trace their MacEory ancestors back to the early 15th century.
In Ireland, the MacEory surname was very popular in the 16th century, especially in counties Mayo and Sligo. It has been suggested that the surname was assumed by the Irish from the Scottish branch.
The MacEory surname was also found in Scotland in the 1600s. According to history, the MacEory family was more numerous in Scotland in its early stages. In addition, the MacGill-Eoin surname had a close association with the Ramsey family, who were prominent in coats Dary and Ayr in Scotland.
In the United States, MacEory families can be found in the states of Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland and New York. Many MacEory families in the US are descendants of 19th century Irish and Scottish immigrants.
Today, the MacEory surname is still popular in these areas.
It is relatively rare in the rest of the world, but many people around the world share a connection to their MacEory ancestors and trace their lineage back to the Isles of Ireland, Scotland, and Man.
Variations of the surname MacEory
The MacEory surname has variants, spellings, and alternate surnames depending on the region. The most commonly used versions are MacIver, MacEever, MacEvey, MacEoig, MacEogh, MacEoghe, and MacEoghainn.
MacIver is derived from the Gaelic MacIomhair, which means ‘son of the heir’. It is the most popular form of MacEory for those in Scotland and Ireland.
MacEever is a variant of MacIver, sometimes found as MacEoin in Ireland. MacEvey is an abbreviated English version of the Gaelic MacEoghainn. It is most widely used in the United States.
MacEoig is a variant of MacIomhair, meaning ‘son of the heir’ as well. This version is most common in Scotland, and it’s common for those living in Scotland, England, and Islands of the UK.
MacEogh is a variation of MacIomhair, derived from the Gaelic ‘Aodh’, meaning ‘fire’. This spelling is often found in Ireland.
MacEoghainn is an Irish version of the Gaelic MacEogh, and is the original Gaelic spelling of the surname. This spelling is also the most widely used among those living in Ireland today.
And finally, MacEoghe is an alternate spelling of MacEogh, derived from the Gaelic ‘Aodh’. Like MacEoghainn, MacEoghe is often found in Ireland.
In conclusion, the surname MacEory has several variants, spellings, and alternate surnames depending on the region. The most common versions are MacIver, MacEever, MacEvey, MacEoig, MacEogh, MacEoghe, and MacEoghainn.
Famous people with the name MacEory
- Rob MacEory: Canadian skiing champion and Olympic gold medalist in the giant slalom
- Harvey MacEory: Professional baseball player in the MLB
- Bruce MacEory: CEO of a major finance corporation
- Jackie MacEory: ecologist and conservationist
- Kenny MacEory: Country music singer-songwriter and Grammy-award winning artist
- Julian MacEory: Academy Award-winning actor
- Patrick MacEory: Professional chef and winner of the James Beard Award
- Shelley MacEory: Actress and comedian
- Patricia MacEory: Humanitarian and philanthropist
- Edmond MacEory: Professional golfer and US Open champion