Surname McLean - Meaning and Origin

Unraveling Ancestral Threads with iGENEA: A Deep Dive into McLean's Scottish Celtic Heritage

Taking a DNA test at iGENEA was a journey into the historical, culturally significant roots tied to my surname, McLean. Using autosomal DNA and Y-chromosome testing, the results were both enlightening and factually accurate, tying my lineage to ancient Scottish Celts.

E. McLean

McLean: What does the surname McLean mean?

The surname McLean originates from Scotland and is part of the Scottish clan names. It is derived from the Gaelic MacGilleEathain which means "son of the servant of Saint John." It's also suggested that name could refer to inhabitants of an island in the Inner Hebrides named "Mull." The clan was known for their strength and dominance in the region, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries. Over time, the name has undergone various spellings, including MacLean, Maclean, and MacLaine. The members of the clan have spread across the world, particularly in North America, as a result of the Scottish diaspora. Thus, the surname McLean signifies Scottish heritage and has religious roots, suggesting a commitment to St. John.

McLean: Where does the name McLean come from?

The surname McLean is of Scottish origin derived from the Gaelic "MacGilleEathain" which means "son of the servant of Saint John." It is closely associated with the Highlands and Islands west of Scotland particularly the Isle of Mull in the historic county of Argyll.

Initially, it was the surname of a powerful clan, Clan Maclean, which played a significant role in Scottish politics and battles. Its members spread across Scotland and even migrated to other countries over centuries. Today, due to the Scottish diaspora, the name is commonly found in many English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is still prevalent in Scotland as well. The spelling of the name can vary, with some common variants including MacLean, Maclean, and McLaine. It has been borne by many notable people, including artists, politicians, athletes, and scientists.

Variations of the surname McLean

The surname McLean, of Scottish origin, has several variants and alternative spellings. These are due to anglicizations, phonetic spelling, and regional differences. Some of these variant include:

- MacClean

- MacClain

- Maclaine

- McClain

- MacLaine

- McLaine

- McClean

- MacLean

- MacLain

It's possible to see other anglicized variations such as Macklean, Micklean, or Mucklean. The surname's gaelic form, MacGille Eathain, which translates to "son of the servant of Saint John", has been interpreted in various ways over time and across regions.

As a surname, it has also been used as a first name, such as the popular McLean Stevenson, an American actor most known for his role on the television series M*A*S*H.

Generally, all these surnames point to a common origin – they are patronymic, referring to "son of Gillean". Gillean itself is derived from the Gaelic “Gilleathain” or “Gill Eain” with "Gille" meaning servant and "Eain" is a Gaelic form of John. Thus all these variations and spelling differences primarily point back to the same lineage.

Famous people with the name McLean

• Don McLean: American singer-songwriter known for his hit song "American Pie".
• Andrea McLean: British television presenter and journalist, best known for her work with ITV.
• Stuart McLean: Canadian radio broadcaster, humorist, and author, best known for his work on the CBC Radio program The Vinyl Cafe.
• A.J. McLean: Member of the famous 90s boy band, the Backstreet Boys.
• Gavin McLean: Renowned New Zealand historian, author, and curator.
• Jackie McLean: American jazz alto saxophonist and composer recognized as one of the greatest musicians of his era.
• Pennie McLean: Australian singer and dancer, famous in Germany during the 1980s.
• Malcolm McLean: American businessman and inventor, known as the father of containerization.
• Norm McLean: Canadian professional ice hockey player in the National Hockey League.
• George McLean: Canadian television journalist and newsreader for the CBC.
• Cathryn McLean: Australian field hockey player.
• Walter McLean: Canadian politician who served in the House of Commons.
• Steven McLean: Scottish football referee.
• Katie McLean: Emmy-award winning makeup artist.
• Ed McLean: Former professional ice hockey player for the Chicago Black Hawks.
• Bitty McLean: British/Jamaican reggae and lovers rock singer, musician, and producer.

Other surnames

McleaMcLeaneMcLearenMcLearinMcLearnMcLearranMcLearyMcLeay