Surname McKirdy - Meaning and Origin

McKirdy: What does the surname McKirdy mean?

McKirdy is a Scottish surname with Gaelic origins. The name is derived from the Gaelic "MacFhearghaide" which means "son of Fhearghus or Fergus." Fergus is a historically significant first name in Scotland and Ireland, stemming from two Gaelic words, "fear" which means "man", and "gus" which means "vigor" or "force". Therefore, the surname McKirdy can be interpreted as "son of the man of vigor". Like many other surnames, it has undergone various spelling changes over the centuries, with alternative forms including MacKirdy, McKirdie, MacKirdey among others. It's also important to note that the prevalence or concentration of the surname is mainly found in the region of Argyll. In the 19th century, many bearers of the name McKirdy migrated to North America, Australia, and other parts of the English-speaking world due to the Highland clearances and economic difficulties at home.

McKirdy: Where does the name McKirdy come from?

The surname McKirdy has its origins in Scotland, in particular, it's believed to have originated from the western coast and the Hebrides islands. The name is derived from the Gaelic personal name 'MacMhuirich', which means 'son of a sea warrior'. Over the centuries, this name has been anglicized and has undergone various changes, turning into the version we recognize today as McKirdy.

McKirdy is not a very common surname, but it can still be found most frequently in its place of origin, Scotland, scattered across the country. Outside of Scotland, the name can also be found in countries like the United States, Canada, England, and Australia, primarily due to Scottish emigration throughout history. However, it remains more prevalent in Scotland than in any other place. The individuals bearing this surname have often been associated with endeavors that demonstrate their ancestral daring, courage, and adventurous spirit. Even though the name McKirdy is not widespread, like many Scottish surnames, it is still cherished and carried with pride by those who bear it.

Variations of the surname McKirdy

The surname McKirdy originates from Scottish Gaelic, and is an Anglicized version of the Gaelic MacChurich or MacMhuirich, meaning "son of Curie" or "son of a sea warrior." Various spelling and derivative versions of McKirdy cast a wider net for possible relatives or connections, as surnames often changed spellings over time or when families immigrated to other countries.

Some variations of the name McKirdy include McMurdo, McMurdoch, McMurchy, McCurdy, McCurdie, Murdie, McQuirrie, MacVurich, and MacCurdy. Other possible spellings may omit the "Mc" or "Mac," such as Kirdy or Curdy. Spellings could also include phonetic variations like Makirdy, Mackirdy, or McKirdie.

It's essential to remember that surname variations can drastically alter the appearance of the name while still referencing the same original ancestry. In historical or genealogical research, considering all possible variations can provide a more comprehensive understanding of family history.

Famous people with the name McKirdy

• Duncan McKirdy: Scottish actor and model
• Emily McKirdy: British theatre director
• John McKirdy: Canadian politician
• Thomas McKirdy: Scottish footballer
• William McKirdy: American politician
• Rhiannon McKirdy: Australian singer-songwriter
• James McKirdy: British actor
• Charles McKirdy: Australian politician
• Thomas McKirdy Jr.: American folk singer
• Tommy McKirdy: Scottish folk musician
• Colin McKirdy: Scottish rugby player
• Heather McKirdy: British historian
• John McKirdy Jr.: American politician
• Alastair McKirdy: British actor and comedian
• Robert McKirdy: British judge
• Joan McKirdy: Canadian author
• Kenneth McKirdy: Scottish rugby player
• Robert McKirdy Jr.: Scottish footballer
• Sarah McKirdy: Canadian television host
• Linda McKirdy: British politician

Other surnames

McKirachan