Surname McMaster - Meaning and Origin

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S. McMaster

McMaster: What does the surname McMaster mean?

The surname "McMaster" is of Scottish origin. The name is an Anglicization of the Gaelic Mac an Mhaighstir, which roughly translates to "son of the master." The term "maighstir" was typically used to denote someone who was a master of their trade or craft, or perhaps a religious leader—or even a teacher. Over time, it evolved into a surname, carried on by the descendants of individuals who had that title. Like many surnames, the precise meaning and origin might vary somewhat from family to family, often reflecting the socio-economic status, profession, or geographical region of the clan. The name McMaster is particularly prevalent in Northern Ireland and Scotland, reflecting its Celtic roots. It's essential to remember that surnames often reflect a glimpse into the family's ancestry, providing clues about occupation, status, or locality.

McMaster: Where does the name McMaster come from?

The surname McMaster is of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic Mac an Mhaighstir, meaning "son of the master". The name typically referred to a scholar or a person of learning. Some variant spellings include MacMaster, Mc Master, and Mac a’ Mhaighstir. In the Early Middle Ages, the McMaster clan was associated with the Scottish region of Galloway.

Today, the surname is most common in Northern Ireland and Scotland, though it is also found in significant numbers in other English-speaking countries. This reflects the historical emigration of Scots and Irish to places such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. According to recent data, the highest concentrations of people named McMaster are in Northern Ireland, followed by Canada and Australia. Noteworthy people with this surname include H. R. McMaster, a US General and National Security Advisor, and James McMaster, an Irish journalist.

Variations of the surname McMaster

The McMaster surname has Scottish origin. Its variation appears primarily across different Scottish and Irish societies. Native Gaelic forms of McMaster are often Mac an Mhaistir or MacMhaighstir, translating to “son of the master." Variants include MacMaster, Mac a' Mhaighstir, Mac Maighstir and Mc Master. Some similar surnames include Macalister or McAlister, which follows the same “Mac” tradition. However, direct lineage might differ. Aletering the placement of space like "Mc Master" doesn’t change the origin or meaning of the name but may be found as a variation. Sometimes, it may be Anglicized into Master or Masters.

The surname, despite its Scottish roots, can also be found in Ireland due to the Plantation of Ulster, where Scottish migrants moved to Ireland. County Antrim and other northern counties in Ireland are common areas to find the surname McMaster.

Given the migratory nature of humans, versions of McMaster could be found all over the world, often with slight changes to fit the phonetic and grammatical rules of the local language. The change in spelling, however, does not signify a change in the origin of the name.

Famous people with the name McMaster

• Henry McMaster: current governor of South Carolina
• Gordon McMaster: former professional football player
• Alice McMaster: Ontario-born Canadian activist and community leader
• Stanley McMaster: prominent Canadian lawyer and philanthropist
• Avril McMaster: Emeritus Professor and Director of the Australian Centre for Public History at the University of Technology Sydney
• Melinda McMaster: Canadian singer and multi-instrumentalist
• John McMaster: American engineer and entrepreneur
• Brigid McMaster: British musician and songwriter
• Wendy McMaster: Canadian economist and consultant
• Cameron McMaster: Canadian-born playwright, screenwriter, filmmaker, and author

Other surnames

McMasters