Surname MeCraken - Meaning and Origin
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MeCraken: What does the surname MeCraken mean?
The last name MeCraken is thought to be of Scottish origin and is most commonly found in the United Kingdom. It is widely believed to be derived from ancient Scottish culture and may come from a topographical term meaning "a rocky height".
More specifically, it may have originated in a region known as Clan MacNaughton, located in the Argyll area of Scotland, referencing a nearby rocky hill. Alternatively, it may be associated with the MacCreken clan, an old Scottish family.
The history of the MeCraken name is difficult to trace, but it is believed to have been adopted as a patronymic surname by descendants of early native clans, around the 17th century. It is estimated that over 150 years ago, the MeCraken family was spread throughout Scotland, with many migrating to London and parts of Canada afterwards.
The MeCraken surname is often associated with the qualities of strength, tenacity, and courage, due to the rocky historical significance of its origins. Additionally, the name is a source of pride for many and is often found etched on family heirlooms-- a reminder of the resolute spirit of their ancestors.
Order DNA origin analysisMeCraken: Where does the name MeCraken come from?
The last name MeCraken is not especially common today. It does not appear on popular lists of surnames in either the United States or the United Kingdom. Because it is an uncommon surname, it can be difficult to determine the places where it is most common. However, what is known is that the surname was first recorded in Ireland in the 12th century.
It is likely that the MeCraken surname originates from the Irish name Mac Raghnaill, which is an Anglicized version of the Gaelic name Mac Raithnail. In the late 19th century, many with this surname immigrated to the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the surname was recorded in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. In the United Kingdom, it can be found in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Today, the MeCraken surname is still most common in Ireland and Scotland, though it is likely uncommon even in these countries. It is also possible to find the MeCraken surname in the United States, particularly among the populations of Irish and Scottish descent.
Variations of the surname MeCraken
The surname MeCraken is also known to have several variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. McCracken is one variant, derived from the ancient Irish Gaelic Mac Craobhagáin, or son of Crobhagáin. Variations are also found in Scotland, where in the 1500s the name appears as Crockane, Crockaine, and Crockin. Cragan is another variation. Spellings further vary in other variations such as MacCrekin, McCraik, McCreachen, McCrakin, MacCreakin, MacCracken, and others.
More spellings and surnames of the same origin are MacInvest, McCrankin, McCravan, McCravy, McCreaghan, McCreggan, McCreary, McCrockin, MacKeracken, MacKracken, MacRacken, and MacRakan.
In Ireland, the surname is most prevalent in County Antrim, as well as along the east coast north of Dublin. It is also found in Scotland, particularly in the counties of Renfrewshiire, Lanarkshire, and Ayrshire.
McCracken is a patronymic name, meaning it is derived from the name of the father. It was often given to children of the father, and variations in spelling became common among families. The name is mostly associated with Irish and Scottish descent, and is found in most major societies and countries around the world.
Famous people with the name MeCraken
- John McCraken: past mayor of Austin, TX, who served from 1975 to 1979.
- Ed McCraken: American professional football player who played for the New York Giants from 1953 to 1959.
- Jack McCraken: British musician and producer, best known for his work with Oasis, Radiohead, and Coldplay.
- Jenny McCraken: Canadian author and educator, most famously known for her anti-bullying book “Stand Up to Bullying”.
- Sam McCraken: Emmy Award-winning actor, mostly known for his roles in popular shows like Lost, 24, and Dexter.
- Caroline McCraken: Award-winning US pediatrician, specializing in the treatment of developmental and behavioral disorders.
- Frank McCraken: Hall of Fame broadcaster and author, most notably known for his work with ABC Sports and hosting ESPN’s Monday Night Football.
- Bill McCraken: Former president of the National Rifle Association, serving from 2004 to 2006.
- Tom McCraken: English comic writer and artist, most famously known for writing the graphic novel series “The Fables”.
- Alex McCraken: National Geographic photographer, most famously known for his work in documenting African tribes and cultures.