Macgillivray Surname

About the Surname MacGillivray

The surname MacGillivray is a Scottish surname with a rich history and a strong presence in various countries around the world. The name is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac 'Ille Bhràtha" which means "son of the servant of judgment." The MacGillivrays are known for their strong family ties and deep sense of tradition.

Origins of the MacGillivray Surname

The MacGillivray surname has its origins in Scotland, specifically in the Highlands. The clan originated in the Scottish Highlands and played a significant role in the region's history. The MacGillivrays were traditionally loyal to the Clan Chattan Confederation, which was a powerful alliance of Highland clans.

The surname MacGillivray is a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from the name of the ancestor. In this case, "Mac" means "son of," and "Gillivray" is the given name of the ancestor. This naming convention is common in Gaelic cultures and is used to denote a person's ancestry.

Migration and Spreading of the MacGillivray Name

Over the centuries, members of the MacGillivray clan migrated to different parts of the world, leading to the spread of the surname. Today, there are significant populations of MacGillivrays in countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. In these countries, the name has taken on new variations and pronunciations based on local dialects.

According to data, the incidence of the MacGillivray surname is highest in Canada, with 2457 individuals bearing the name. The United States and Scotland follow closely behind, with 1364 and 1017 incidences, respectively. The surname is also present in other countries, albeit in smaller numbers.

Famous MacGillivrays

Throughout history, individuals with the MacGillivray surname have made significant contributions to various fields. One famous MacGillivray is John MacGillivray, a Scottish naturalist and explorer who participated in the voyages of the HMS Rattlesnake in the mid-19th century. His work in the field of botany and zoology earned him acclaim and recognition.

In more recent times, MacGillivrays have excelled in fields such as literature, politics, and sports. Their strong sense of identity and heritage has played a significant role in shaping their achievements and successes.

MacGillivray Family Crest

Like many Scottish clans, the MacGillivray clan has its own family crest that symbolizes their heritage and values. The crest features elements such as a lion, a stag, and a crown, all of which represent strength, agility, and nobility. The motto "Touch not the cat bot a glove" is also associated with the clan, signifying their readiness to defend their honor and pride.

The colors of the MacGillivray tartan are predominantly green, blue, and white, symbolizing the lush Scottish landscapes and the clear blue skies of the Highlands. The tartan is a source of pride for many MacGillivrays and is worn on special occasions and family gatherings.

Legacy of the MacGillivray Name

The MacGillivray surname carries with it a legacy of strength, resilience, and family values. Despite the challenges of time and distance, the clan continues to uphold its traditions and honor its ancestors. The name MacGillivray serves as a reminder of the rich history and heritage of the Scottish Highlands and the enduring spirit of its people.

As the descendants of MacGillivrays around the world come together to celebrate their shared ancestry, they forge new bonds and connections that will ensure the name lives on for future generations to come.

The surname Macgillivray into the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar occurs when it comes to Macgillivray, which as you are able to corroborate, it may be stated that it's a surname that may be present in all the nations regarding the world. Just as you will find countries by which definitely the density of individuals utilizing the surname Macgillivray is greater than far away.

The map for the Macgillivray surname

View Macgillivray surname map

The possibility of examining for a world map about which countries hold more Macgillivray on the planet, assists us a whole lot. By placing ourselves on the map, on a concrete nation, we can start to see the concrete number of people with the surname Macgillivray, to acquire this way the particular information of all of the Macgillivray you could currently get in that nation. All of this additionally helps us to understand not merely where the surname Macgillivray originates from, but also in excatly what way the people that are originally area of the household that bears the surname Macgillivray have relocated and relocated. Just as, you'll be able to see in which places they will have settled and grown up, which explains why if Macgillivray is our surname, it appears interesting to which other nations regarding the globe it's possible any particular one of our ancestors once moved to.

Nations with additional Macgillivray worldwide

  1. Canada Canada (2457)
  2. United States United States (1364)
  3. Scotland Scotland (1017)
  4. Australia Australia (477)
  5. England England (376)
  6. New Zealand New Zealand (172)
  7. South Africa South Africa (77)
  8. Wales Wales (35)
  9. Ireland Ireland (14)
  10. United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates (11)
  11. France France (8)
  12. Argentina Argentina (7)
  13. Qatar Qatar (4)
  14. Indonesia Indonesia (4)
  15. Switzerland Switzerland (3)