Surname McLeland - Meaning and Origin

McLeland: What does the surname McLeland mean?

The last name McLeland is of Scottish origin. The name is a derivative of "MacLellan", which is most commonly associated with a clan from the southern region of Scotland, specifically in Galloway. The "Mc" or "Mac" in Scottish and Irish surnames typically translates to "son of", while the second part of the name, "Leland", doesn't have a clear meaning in Gaelic. However, in Old English, "Leland" can mean "fallow land" or "uncultivated land". Therefore, while not definitive, McLeland could be potentially interpreted as "son of the one from the uncultivated land". It's important to remember that surnames have complex histories tied to geographical, occupational, and familial origins, and the exact meaning of McLeland can vary based on these historical contexts. The spelling of the name can also vary greatly, with alternate forms including MacLelland, MacClelland, MacLellan, among others.

McLeland: Where does the name McLeland come from?

The surname McLeland is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic "Mac Gille Fhaoláin," which translates to "son of the servant of St. Fillan." St. Fillan was a 7th-century Irish missionary who evangelized Scotland.

Etymologically, "Mac" is a prefix meaning "son of," and "Gille" denotes "servant of." "Fhaoláin" is the genitive case of "Faolán," a personal name derived from "faol" meaning "wolf." Thus, the surname could also be interpreted as "son of the wolf's servant."

Today, the most considerable concentrations of people with the McLeland surname are found in the United States, particularly in the states of Texas, Arkansas, and North Carolina. However, it is not very widespread, even in these locations. It also maintains a presence in Scotland and other parts of the UK, albeit at much lower frequencies. It appears to be relatively uncommon globally, making it an interesting surname with a rich history rooted in Scottish culture and folklore.

Variations of the surname McLeland

The surname "McLeland" may have different variations and spellings, particularly due to regional differences, language evolution, phonetic spellings, and immigration records. Some of these variants could include the surnames McLelland, McClelland, MacClelland, MacLelland, McLellon, McClellon, McLellan, McClellan, MacLellan, MacClellan, McLeland, McCleland, MacLeland and MacCleland.

The surnames are of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic MacGilleFhaolain which means "son of the servant of St Fillan". It's important to note that multiple families could have adopted this name independently, and so not all people with the surname will necessarily be related.

All these variations could have originated due to immigration, where officials recorded names as they sounded, resulting in a variety of spellings. Similar surnames may also have developed when descendants chose to simplify or 'Americanize' their names. Therefore, searching for all possible variations is advisable when conducting genealogical research.

Famous people with the name McLeland

• Mel McLeland: Actor known for his roles in films and television shows such as The Bridge on the River Kwai, Vanishing Point, The Invaders, and The Big Valley.
• Will McLeland: American football player who played college football for the University of North Carolina and professionally for the Oakland Raiders.
• Merrill McLeland: U.S. Army brigadier general who served during World War II.
• Eric McLeland: American ice hockey player who served as the captain of the Philadelphia Flyers from 1968 to 1972.
• Sarah McLeland: British character actress known for television shows like Our Friends in the North and movies including Syriana.
• Don McLeland: Baseball player who played professionally in the minor leagues from 1952 to 1957.
• Jack McLeland: Canadian ice hockey defenseman who played in the National Hockey League from 1934 to 1946.
• Mel McLeland Jr.: Son of Mel McLeland and actor who appeared in television shows like L.A. Law, Mad About You, and Nash Bridges.
• James McLeland: Founding partner and executive vice president of Orion Energy Group, LLC.
• Alan McLeland: American professional golfer who played on the PGA Tour from 1991 to 2007.

Other surnames

McLelan