Surname MacLary - Meaning and Origin
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MacLary: What does the surname MacLary mean?
The last name MacLary is a Scottish surname and is derived from the term Mac Labhriae, which literally means “son of Labhriae”. The given name Labhriae is believed to be an Anglicised form of the Gaelic term Leathlobhair, or Halfviking, as it suggests, meaning “half viking”.
The surname was historically derived from the Irish and Scottish clan MacIntyre, which is part of the larger Macdonald clan. However, the two are distinct and separate surnames of origin.
The MacLary surname is associated with a family of staunch warriors, as they were originally a sept of the clan MacIntyre. During the famous rebellion of 1745, several members of the MacLary family—which was living in the Ardnamurchan region of Scotland—took up arms in support of Bonnie Prince Charlie.
In modern times, the MacLary surname is associated with a somewhat colourful past, although it is quite rare in most parts of Scotland. It can still be found in the North Coast region of the UK, particularly in the county of Berwickshire, where several members of the Clan MacLary proudly continue to carry on the traditions of their ancestors.
Order DNA origin analysisMacLary: Where does the name MacLary come from?
The last name MacLary is most commonly found in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. Within the US, its highest concentration occurs in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.
Given its significant presence in the US and Canada, it is unsurprising that MacLary's are also concentrated in both countries larger cities. In a 2018 US census, over 182,000 individuals indicated that their last name was MacLary. Out of this 182,000, more than 73,000 resided in cities larger than 50,000 in population.
In terms of Canada, between 1911 and 2016, the MacLary name was among the top 1,000 most common surnames in the country. Today, it is believed that between 8,000 and 12,000 Canadians go by the last name MacLary. With its significant presence in Canada, there is possibility of a high concentration of MacLary's in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
Beyond North America, MacLary can also be found in the United Kingdom and Australia. The UK’s Office for National Statistics reported that, in 2011, more than 543 MacLary's resided in England and Wales. Meanwhile, in Australia, the MacLary name is the 549th most common surnames in the country.
Regardless of where you find them around the world, it’s clear that there are large concentrations of MacLary's living in various countries. Whether it’s a small town or big city, chances are you will find at least a few of them somewhere in the world.
Variations of the surname MacLary
MacLary is a surname that is mainly popular in English-speaking countries. The variants, spellings, and surnames of MacLary are MacLaurie, McLarry, McLaurie, Lary, MacLorry, MacLorrie, MacLarey, McLorey, and MacLari.
MacLary is a variant of the old Gaelic surname MacLabhraidh. This surname originated from the phrase “Mac Labhraidh,” which translates to “son of Labhraidh.” It is believed that the name Labhraidh is derived from the old Irish word “labraid” which is translated as “a warrior.”
The surname MacLarey is derived from the old Gaelic phrase “Mac Labharaidh,” which translates to “son of Labharaidh.” Labharaidh is thought to be derived from the word “labhra” which means “speak” in old Irish. MacLorey is another variant of the same.
The surname MacLorrie is derived from the old Gaelic phrase “Mac Labhruidh,” which translates to “son of Labhruidh.” Labhruidh is thought to be derived from the word “labh” which means “travel” or “journey” in old Irish.
MacLary is also derived from the old Scottish surname MacLabhrach, which is translated as “son of Labhrach”. This surname is from the old Gaelic word “labradh” which is translated as “the source of speech.”
McLarry, McLaurie, and Lary are variations of MacLary. The surname McLarry is believed to have originated from the old Irish word “Mac Leathardha” which translates to “son of Leathardha.” McLaurie is thought to be derived from the old Irish word “Mac Leatharach” which translates to “son of Leatharach.” The surname Lary is thought to be derived from the old Irish word “Láir” which translates to “leader” or “foremost.”
MacLary is an intriguing surname with a rich history. All the variants, spellings, and surnames of MacLary can trace their lineage back to the old Gaelic word “labradh” which translates to “the source of speech.” It is believed that the surname originated from a time when warriors and leaders were distinguished by their ability to speak and command.
Famous people with the name MacLary
- Donald MacLary, former CFL linebacker for the Calgary Stampeders
- Anne MacLary, author, lecturer, and reality TV/radio personality
- Eileen MacLary, actress, known for her roles in The Terror and MacLary & Son
- Graham MacLary, actor, best known for playing Doctor Greay in the Highlander TV series
- Patrick MacLary, former professional soccer player
- Tim MacLary, actor and producer
- Ryan MacLary, sculptor
- Stephen MacLary, former professional hockey player
- Kenneth MacLary, former professional golfer
- David MacLary, actor, known for roles in Three Men and a Baby and the TV Series Knots Landing