Surname McMeikin - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'M'
McMeikin: What does the surname McMeikin mean?
The surname McMeikin is of Scottish origin. It is a derivative of the Scottish Gaelic surname McMeekin, which in turn is a patronymic form of the personal name Meek, a nickname derived from the Gaelic term "mèic", meaning "son". The 'Mc' or 'Mac' prefix in Scottish and Irish surnames is generally taken to mean 'son of', hence, McMeikin can be interpreted as 'son of Meekin'. Surnames in Celtic cultures often refer to the profession or personal characteristics of the ancestor, and the term 'meek' could indicate someone humble or gentle in disposition. So, the surname 'McMeikin' essentially carries the meaning of 'son of the humble one'. Nevertheless, specific genealogical research would be required to determine the exact origins and history of an individual's McMeikin lineage. Like many surnames, there may be different branches and origins of the McMeikin family name across Scotland and Ireland.
Order DNA origin analysisMcMeikin: Where does the name McMeikin come from?
The surname McMeikin is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name MacMiadhachain, which means "son of Miadhachain." The individual bearing the name Miadhachain was likely to be honorable. The name first surfaced in the Isle of Arran, where the family held a family seat from early times. Following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, many Scots families migrated southwards to England, and the name got spread in various forms.
Today, McMeikin is not common anywhere, as it is a rare surname. However, a more significant prevalence can be found in countries like Scotland, Australia, United States, Canada, and Northern Ireland, owing to historic emigrations. In North America, many holders of the McMeikin surname are descendants of Scots-Irish settlers who immigrated in the 17th and 18th centuries. Nevertheless, as with many Scottish surnames, the widespread Scottish diaspora means that bearers of the name McMeikin can potentially be found in any corner of the globe.
Variations of the surname McMeikin
The surname McMeikin has variations that can be found across records in history, especially due to individual choices, regional accents, clerical errors and other reasons. Some variants include McMeikan, McMeeken, M'Meeking, McMeaking, McMeekin, McMeeking, MacMeeken, MacMeikin, MacMicken, and MacMicking.
Spelling variations might be McMykin, McMyken, McMekin, McMeken, or McMykan, reflecting phonetic spelling based on spoken pronunciation of the name. Other variations could involve the prefix "Mc" being replaced with "Mac" which is simply a matter of stylistic preference since both mean "son of" in Gaelic.
These names could also be further modified by adding or removing an 's' at the end, reflecting whether the name is being used in the possessive form. For example, McMeikin's or McMeekin's.
In terms of surnames of the same origin, Irish or Scottish names that contain the "Mc" or "Mac" prefix, followed by a name or descriptor, could arguably be seen as names of the same origin such as McCormick, McTavish, or MacDonald. However, the part that follows the "Mc" or "Mac" is where greater significance lies in terms of specific identity and lineage.
Famous people with the name McMeikin
- Thora McMeikin: Actress best known for her role as Sally in the British sitcom Shelley.
- Michael McMeikin: Former UK Member of Parliament (1987-1997).
- Andrew McMeikin: Director of the Scottish Wildlife Trust, author of several books and natural outdoor enthusiast.
- Duncan McMeikin: Scottish football player.
- Fiona McMeikin: Scottish actor known for Mamma Mia! (2018) and Boogly Wooly Wop (2019).
- Arran McMeikin: Professional golfer on the European Tour.
- John McMeikin: Scottish footballer who competed in the 1964 Nations Cup.
- Ben McMeikin: Musician and producer of folk and pop music.
- Lindsey McMeikin: Drummer and founder of the popular band, "Movroot".
- Joan McMeikin: Scottish actress and singer best known for her roles in the series Still Game and Grinagog.