Gilliand Surname

The Origins of the Gilliand Surname

The surname Gilliand is of Scottish and Irish origin, with variations including Gilliland and Gillian. It is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Gille Fhaoláin, which translates to "son of the servant of Saint Fillan." Saint Fillan was a 8th-century Irish monk who was known for his healing powers and miracles. The name was likely bestowed upon an individual who was a devotee or servant of Saint Fillan, or who lived near a church or shrine dedicated to the saint.

Another possible origin of the Gilliand surname is from the Old Norse name Gillándi, which means "magic wand" or "sorcerer." This suggests a connection to magical or supernatural practices, indicating that the original bearer of the surname may have been involved in such activities.

Migration of the Gilliand Name

The Gilliand surname has spread to various countries around the world, with the highest incidences found in the United States, Switzerland, and New Zealand. The United States has the largest number of individuals with the surname, with 683 recorded incidences. This is likely due to the large influx of Scottish and Irish immigrants to the US in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

In Switzerland, the surname is also relatively common, with 339 recorded incidences. This could be attributed to the historical ties between Scotland and Switzerland, as well as the presence of Scottish mercenaries in Swiss armies during the Renaissance period.

New Zealand, with 45 recorded incidences of the Gilliand surname, also has a notable presence of individuals with Scottish and Irish ancestry. The surname may have been brought to New Zealand by early settlers or immigrants seeking a new start in the country.

Less Common Incidences

While the Gilliand surname is most prevalent in the United States, Switzerland, and New Zealand, there are also smaller numbers of individuals with the surname in countries such as Argentina, France, England, Germany, Australia, Canada, Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, Belgium, Taiwan, and South Africa. These lesser-known incidences could be a result of individual migration, intermarriage, or other factors.

Overall, the Gilliand surname has a rich history and diverse origins, with connections to both Gaelic and Norse cultures. Its presence in various countries around the world reflects the global migration patterns of Scottish and Irish populations, as well as the enduring legacy of Saint Fillan and the mystical connotations of the name.

The surname Gilliand within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Equivalent occurs in the case of Gilliand, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname that may be found in a lot of the countries of this globe. In the same manner there are nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of people using the surname Gilliand is more than in other countries.

The map of the Gilliand surname

1. United States (683)
2. Switzerland (339)
3. New Zealand (45)
4. Argentina (13)
5. France (10)
6. England (10)
7. Germany (3)
8. Australia (2)
9. Canada (2)
10. Nothern Ireland (2)
11. Afghanistan (1)
12. Belgium (1)
13. Taiwan (1)
14. South Africa (1)