Macafee Surname

Introduction

The surname MacAfee is a name with a rich history and diverse origins. With various incidences in countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, it is a name that has spread far and wide. In this article, we will explore the origins of the MacAfee surname, its meaning, and its prevalence in different countries.

Origins of the MacAfee Surname

The MacAfee surname is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Dubhshith." The prefix "Mac" means son of, while "Dubhshith" is a personal name that translates to "Black Peace." This suggests that the original bearer of the name may have been a descendent of someone with a dark complexion or a calm and peaceful demeanor.

Over time, the name MacAfee evolved from Mac Dubhshith to its current form, with variations such as MacAlphie, MacCaffie, and McAfee also being used.

Meaning of the MacAfee Surname

The surname MacAfee is believed to have originated as a descriptive nickname for the original bearer. It likely described a specific physical characteristic, personality trait, or occupation. The meaning of the name "Black Peace" could suggest a person who was serene and composed, even in difficult situations.

Alternatively, the name could have been a reference to the dark hair or skin tone of the individual. This interpretation aligns with the Gaelic meaning of "Dubhshith" as "Black Peace."

Spread of the MacAfee Surname

United States

The MacAfee surname has a significant presence in the United States, with 344 recorded incidences. The name likely arrived in the US through Scottish immigrants who settled in various states, such as New York, Pennsylvania, and California. Over time, the name spread across the country through migration and intermarriage.

Australia

Australia also has a notable number of individuals with the MacAfee surname, with 207 recorded incidences. Scottish and Irish immigrants likely brought the name to Australia during the 19th century, contributing to its presence in the country. Today, Australian MacAfees can be found in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Canada

In Canada, the MacAfee surname is less common, with 61 recorded incidences. The name likely arrived in Canada through Scottish and Irish immigrants who settled in provinces such as Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. While not as prevalent as in other countries, the MacAfee surname has left its mark on Canadian history.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the MacAfee surname is distributed unevenly across different regions. England has the highest incidence with 29 recorded instances, followed by Northern Ireland with 19, Scotland with 2, and Wales with 1. The name likely originated in Scotland before spreading to other parts of the UK through migration and settlement.

Despite its lower prevalence in the UK compared to countries like the US and Australia, the MacAfee surname is still a part of the rich tapestry of British surnames.

Conclusion

The MacAfee surname is a name with a fascinating history and diverse origins. From its Scottish roots to its presence in countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, the name has spread far and wide. Whether derived from a descriptive nickname or a reference to a specific trait, the MacAfee surname continues to be a part of the cultural fabric of various countries around the world.

The surname Macafee into the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is possible to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The same happens when it comes to Macafee, which as you're able to corroborate, it may be stated that it's a surname which can be present in the majority of the nations associated with the world. In the same manner you can find countries by which truly the density of men and women aided by the surname Macafee is higher than far away.

The map associated with the Macafee surname

1. United States (344)
2. Australia (207)
3. Canada (61)
4. England (29)
5. Nothern Ireland (19)
6. Scotland (2)
7. Austria (1)
8. Wales (1)