Surname McMann - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'M'
McMann: What does the surname McMann mean?
The surname McMann is of Irish origin and derives from the Gaelic Mac Mathghamna, meaning 'son of Mathghamhain'. The personal name Mathghamhain translates to 'bear', suggesting that the ancestor who first bore this name might have been known for their bear-like qualities such as strength or bravery. Like many Celtic names, McMann was originally a patronymic surname, passed down from the first bearer’s father. Over time, it evolved into a fixed, hereditary surname. Variations of this name include McMahon, MacMahon, and McMahoon. The name is common in Ireland, particularly in counties Clare and Monaghan.
Order DNA origin analysisMcMann: Where does the name McMann come from?
The last name McMann is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic personal name 'MacMhanna' where 'Mac' means son, and 'Mhanna' is possibly derived from the word 'mana' meaning spirit. This surname found its roots in the Scottish theme of Galloway and is an indigenous name in the county of Dumbartonshire. Additionally, it is considered to be an Anglicized form of the Irish surname MacMaghnuis, thus Ireland is another homeland for this surname.
Today, the surname McMann is predominantly found in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia. It is most common in the United States, especially in the states like New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, and Massachusetts. It appears less frequently in the United Kingdom. However, counties Antrim and Down in Northern Ireland still have a significant number of people named McMann. In Scotland, it remains common in its origin area. Overall, due to migration and dispersal over time, the McMann surname can be found in many English-speaking countries around the world.
Variations of the surname McMann
The surname McMann originates from the Irish and Scottish Gaelic Mac Mhathain or Mac Mathghamha, meaning "son of the bear." It may also relate to Mac Mhanais, meaning "son of Magnus". Variants of the surname include MacMann, McMan, MacMan, McMahan, MacMahan, McMahon, MacMahon, M'Mann, M'Mahan, and M'Mahon. The "Mac" or "Mc" prefix means "son of", and thus "Mc" could just be a version of "Mac". "Mc" and "Mac" are often used interchangeably.
Aside from the above straight-line variants, each version of the name might also be found spelled phonetically, as literacy was not widespread until the 19th century and names in the census and other records often were written as they sounded. Therefore, similar sounding surnames like Mann, Mahan, or Mahon might be related. Furthermore, with the frequent anglicization of Irish surnames upon emigration, Matthews is a possible variant related to McMann through the "son of Mathghamha" origin, given its meaning "son of Matthew".
Please also be aware that clan variations could also apply, encompassing swathes of loosely affiliated families, not directly related, but owing allegiance to regional Chieftains bearing the name.
Famous people with the name McMann
- Lisa McMann: An internationally recognized American author, known for her bestselling 'Wake' trilogy and 'Unwanted' series for middle grade readers.
- Gerald McMann: An American singer, often credited as Gerard McMahon; he's famous for his song "Cry Little Sister," the theme song for the iconic 1987 film, "The Lost Boys."
- Jerry McMann: He is an accomplished Canadian musical artist who composes for various genres including folk, rock, and pop.
- Sarah McMann: An American mixed martial artist and former Olympic wrestler. She is the first American woman to receive a silver medal in Olympic Wrestling.
- Jack B. McMann: A recognized mathematics professor who participated as a team member in the International Mathematical competitions.
- Risa Vetri McMann: An American filmmaker primarily known for her work as a producer and director in the film and television industry.
- Joe McMann: An American football player, famously known for his tenure with the NFL team, the Washington Redskins.
- Shane McMann: Former professional wrestler from the United States famously known for his appearances with the WWE.
- Stephanie McMahon: An American businesswoman and professional wrestling personality, minorly known by her maiden name; she's presently recognized from her marriage to Paul "Triple H" Levesque. Please note that some people may use different spellings or variations of the surname McMann.