Surname MacGrowther - Meaning and Origin
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MacGrowther: What does the surname MacGrowther mean?
The last name MacGrowther is a Scottish surname with a long and interesting history. The origin of the name dates back to the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada, when the iconic King Kenneth MacAlpin united the two traditional rival kingdoms of the Scots and the Picts in an event known as the ‘Scoto-Pictish Union’. It is believed that the first known holder of the last name MacGrowther was descended from Alpin, and was a member of the ruling dynasty of the time.
The literal meaning of the name MacGrowther is ‘son of the son of the groat’. The ‘groat’ in this case refers to a type of coin, usually made of silver or gold, most popular in medieval Scotland. This coin has long held religious and monetary value in Scotland, and it is believed that the MacGrowthers derived their name based on the value of the coin.
MacGrowthers are concentrated mostly in the northwestern area of Scotland. The area of origin is traditionally thought to be near the Lochaber area in Lochaber and is believed to include the highlands of Scotland, as well as the area around and including the Isle of Skye. Though, the original area of origin is sometimes called into question through deeper investigations of linkages and family ties.
The MacGrowther name is also well recognized as a technical term in the field of kilts, a form of traditional dress inhabiting the cultures of Scotland. It is believed to be instrumental in the kilts gains of popularity in the 20th century, and continues to be a highly celebrated last name today.
Order DNA origin analysisMacGrowther: Where does the name MacGrowther come from?
The last name MacGrowther is associated with many parts of the world today. According to Ancestry.com, the surname MacGrowther is common in Scotland, Canada, the United States, England, and Australia.
The name can be traced back to Scotland in the 16th century, where it is documented in several sources, including the Statistical Account of Scotland published in 1794. At the time of the publication, the surname was common in various parishes, particularly in Ayrshire and Glasgow.
In Canada, the MacGrowther name is very popular, particularly in the Maritimes region and the province of Ontario. The name is also found in the United States, where it is popular in states with large populations, such as New York, Pennsylvania, California, and Florida.
In England, it is mainly found in the counties of Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cheshire, though there are some reports in the Southwest. In Australia, records show that the name is found mainly in Victoria and New South Wales.
With its origins in Scotland and its presence around the world, the last name MacGrowther is a popular one today. Its spread across the globe is evidence of a long and rich history that has shaped the families that carry the name.
Variations of the surname MacGrowther
The surname MacGrowther has many variants and spellings, including MacGrouther, MacGrotthar, MacGrother, McGrawther, McGreath, MacGrothar, MacGraeter, MacGraider and McGrowt. In some old cases, it has been changed to MacGrouther, MacGarther, MacGruter and McGroc.
While MacGrowther is an Ulster variant of the surname, many of these spellings and surnames have come out of different regions, such as Scotland. The MacGrouthers, for example, were a Highland clan from Scotland.
MacGrother is a variant of the surname from the Irish province of Argyllshire. The McGreath (McGrea & McGreat) clan was also from a Highlands origin in Scotland.
Many of these surnames have been anglicised over time and in some cases, certain versions of the name have been lost due to the difficulty in spellings and pronunciations. In Ireland, the MacGrowther name is still alive and is even a surname in Northern Ireland.
Some of the surname variants of MacGrowther can also be found in other combinations as well as the traditional Scottish, Irish and Ulster blends. For example, McGovern (from the Irish MacGuaire), McRouth (from the Irish Mag Rath), and Growther (from the Dutch Groother).
Ultimately, the last name MacGrowther has endured many transformations, migrations and regional influences, giving us a glimpse into the history behind the name. Almost all surnames have some degree of variation, and MacGrowther is no exception.
Famous people with the name MacGrowther
- John Green MacGrowther: Actor and model known for his roles in the series Jessie and Open Water 2: Adrift.
- Mae MacGrowther: Award winning fundraise and co-founder of the organization "Pennies for Progress" which focuses on providing basic needs for children around the world.
- Craig MacGrowther: Professional golfer who recently won the Greenbrier Classic.
- Noah MacGrowther: Lead singer of the indie folk group The MacGrowthers.
- Billy MacGrowther: Veteran restaurateur and head chef at the renowned "MacGrowther's Steakhouse" located in New York City.
- Brian MacGrowther: Young entrepreneur and founder of the online web series "MacGrowther Media Company".
- Charlotte MacGrowther: Former professional basketball player who is now a highly sought after basketball coach.
- Andrew MacGrowther: Professional photographer known for his widely acclaimed portraits of influential people in the music industry.
- Caleb MacGrowther: Award-winning actor and voiceover artist most recognizable for his work in the animated series "Scooby Doo and the Mystery Inc".
- Lila MacGrowther: Contemporary oil painter and sculptor, known for her vibrant abstract art pieces.