Surname MacMunigal - Meaning and Origin
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MacMunigal: What does the surname MacMunigal mean?
The last name MacMunigal is a Scottish surname of ancient origins. It is derived from the Gaelic Mac Mhaolagain, meaning “son of the bald one.” The name may have originated with a specific person or family who were known to possess the distinctive physical trait of baldness. Alternatively, the name could have been given to someone because of their particular temperament, baldness being considered a sign of wisdom and prudence.
In Scotland, the name has been associated with the Great Clans of Scotland, such as the Clan Campbell and Clan MacDonald, two of the most powerful clans in the country. This suggests that it was quite a common name in centuries past.
Today, the name is found around the world and in different variations including MacMunigal, MacMunigual and MacMunnigal. Most of those who carry this name are thought to be descendants of the great clans of Scotland who migrated abroad in search of a better life.
The MacMunigal name is very closely associated with Scotland’s rich culture, history and traditions. It binds individuals from different countries and regions together and is a reminder of Scotland’s deep roots.
Order DNA origin analysisMacMunigal: Where does the name MacMunigal come from?
The surname MacMunigal is not particularly common today. It is primarily used in the Western Isles of Scotland, with records indicating it has been in use since the 14th century. This is likely because of the tradition in Scotland of one-off spellings where the original name is passed on through generations with slight changes.
The majority of MacMunigal's today are believed to be found in the Hebrides and are likely descended from the same familial line. The name is most commonly associated with the island of Islay, where there is a significant population of it today.
In terms of geographical spread, the surname MacMunigal does not extend beyond Scotland; there is no evidence of it being used in England, Ireland or the rest of Europe. The name has spread to other countries, such as Australia, the USA and Canada, but is relatively uncommon outside of Scotland.
The population of MacMunigal today appears to be quite small, with only a few hundred in existence. This means that, if you're looking for someone with this surname, you'll have better luck searching online and reaching out on social media than attempting to find them in person.
Variations of the surname MacMunigal
MacMunigal is a surname of Irish and Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic MacMhuinchille. It is a patronymic form of the personal name Munch/Muncius. Variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin include MacMunchill, MacMunchie, MacMunchil, Mackmounchill, Mackmunchie, and Mackmunchil.
The Irish form of the surname is MacMhuinchille, and the Scottish form is MacMhunnachill or MacMunnchill, McMonigal, and McMenigle. Other forms of the surname include Menical, Minacle, Minkill, Minnacle, Minkille, McMenigal, Mackmounchill, and MacMunch.
The surname is well-established in Ulster, with many of the families originating in County Donegal. The MacMunigal spelling is found mainly in the Province of Connacht in Ireland. In Scotland, there is a significant presence of this surname in the counties of Ayr and Argyle.
Michael Munchille was one notable bearer of the surname. This 17th century clergyman was the rector of the parish of Tory Island, County Donegal. He wrote Gaelic books and was active in the Irish Rebellion of 1641.
Despite its Gaelic roots, the MacMunigal surname has a long history in both Scotland and Ireland. In recent times, the spelling variations are common in those countries with a concentration of Scottish and Irish immigrants and their descendants.
Famous people with the name MacMunigal
- Maeve MacMunigal: Irish dancer and choreographer
- Charles MacMunigal: British-born cricketer
- Cara MacMunigal: founder and CEO of a health-tech platform
- Michael MacMunigal: celebrated Irish-American author and actor
- Patrick MacMunigal: served as chancellor of San Jose State University
- Janice MacMunigal: Canadian graphic designer and illustrator
- Lillian MacMunigal: American film and television actress
- Conor MacMunigal: host of a successful comedy-focused podcast
- Colin MacMunigal: renowned dietitian and nutritionist
- Bruce MacMunigal: founder and CEO of a global investment banking firm