Surname MacKern - Meaning and Origin
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MacKern: What does the surname MacKern mean?
The surname MacKern is an anglicized version of the Gaelic surname Mac Ghíobharn, which is composed of the elements Mac, meaning "son of", and Gíobharn, a personal name meaning "son of the noble one". In a broad sense, the name is derived from the Irish or Scottish Gaelic Mac Ghiobhuirn, which is composed of the elements Mac, meaning "son of" and Ghiobhuirn, a personal name meaning "noble".
The MacKerns were historically found in the Scottish Highlands in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This Highland family is believed to have descended from King Ferchar I, known as "Fergus the Great," the King of Scots from 559 to 565. The Gaelic name MacGhíobharn, and the Anglicized name MacKern, denote the family were true Scots.
The surname MacKern is also found in both Ireland and Scotland, as well as in England and other parts of the world. In Scotland, the surname was particularly common in Ayrshire, and in Ireland, it was found in County Down. Prior to the Industrial Revolution of the 18th century, the Scottish and Irish MacKerns were primarily agricultural workers and shepherds.
The name MacKern is broader associated with the image of ruggedness and strength, as the original MacKerns had a fierce nature and often fought courageously in battle. The MacKerns have an interesting and proud heritage, one marked by courage and strength of character which has been passed through generations.
Order DNA origin analysisMacKern: Where does the name MacKern come from?
The surname MacKern possibly originates from Scotland or Ireland, as "Mac" in both these cultures suggests "son of". In fact, it might be a variant spelling of McKern, a surname that traces back to the Scottish Highland clans and is derived from the Gaelic word "cearn" which means "victory". However, there's not much detailed information available about the exact origins or history of MacKern.
In regards to its current prevalence, surname distribution maps and databases suggest this surname isn't exceptionally widespread, which can make it more challenging to determine where it's most common today. People with the MacKern surname have settled in various parts of the world, often influenced by historical events such as migration waves, but specific concentration regions are not easily identifiable. It could be spread in countries where Scottish or Irish descendants live, like the United States, Canada, Australia, or part of the UK. Nonetheless, it's essential to note that surname distribution can change over time due to many factors.
Variations of the surname MacKern
The surname MacKern is of Scottish origin and like many similar surnames, it has many possible variant spellings due to translation and transcription errors over the centuries. Some of the most common variants include McKern, MacKerne, McKerne, McKerron, and MacKerron. You may even find it listed as Makern or Makarron in some instances.
On researching, it seems the surname likely stems from the Gaelic term 'Mac Eacharna', meaning 'son of the horse lord'. Hence, other possible related surnames could be McEachern, MacEachern, or even McEachran and MacEachran. Another common way the surname was anglicized was Eachern or Echern.
As the roots of the name suggest a clan-based origin, it could be connected to several Scottish clans including Clan MacEacharn or Clan MacEachen. Be aware that surnames, especially from Gaelic, are often anglicized in different ways, which leads to numerous variations. It's also recommended to check records from the specific regions in Scotland where the surname is most common for additional variants.
Due to the fluid nature of language and spelling, the best approach when researching this surname is to consider the possible phonetic equilibriums and adaptations.
Famous people with the name MacKern
The most notable person with the last name MacKern is Leo McKern, an Australian actor, popularly known for his role as Horace Rumpole in the British television series "Rumpole of the Bailey." He also played key roles in various films such as "The Day the Earth Caught Fire," "The Mouse That Roared," and "A Man for All Seasons," among others. However, it should be noted that his surname is McKern, not MacKern. Furthermore, his daughter, Abigail McKern, followed in her father's footsteps and has become a respected actress in her own right, appearing in TV shows like "Judge John Deed" and "Midsomer Murders." At present, there don't appear to be any famous individuals with the exact surname "MacKern." Please note that variations in spelling might result in differing results.