Mcniff Surname

Introduction

The surname McNiff is a unique and interesting surname that has roots in multiple countries around the world. With a total incidence of 1527 in the United States alone, it is a fairly common surname with a rich history. In this article, we will explore the origins, meanings, and variations of the surname McNiff, as well as its presence in different countries.

Origins of the McNiff Surname

The surname McNiff is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Shníomh, which means "son of Sníomh." Sníomh is a personal name that likely had a specific meaning or significance in ancient Gaelic culture. Like many Gaelic surnames, McNiff is a patronymic surname, indicating the bearer's descent from a specific ancestor.

In Ireland, the surname McNiff is most commonly found in County Donegal, where the Mac Shníomh clan originated. The clan was believed to be a branch of the larger O'Donnell clan, one of the most powerful and influential families in Irish history.

Variations of the McNiff Surname

Over time, the McNiff surname has undergone various spellings and translations due to changes in language and dialect. Some common variations of the surname include MacNiff, McNeiff, and McEniff. These variations may be the result of anglicization or phonetic spelling differences.

McNiff in the United States

In the United States, the incidence of the McNiff surname is highest, with a total of 1527 occurrences. The surname likely arrived in the U.S. during the Great Famine in Ireland, when many Irish immigrants sought refuge and opportunity in America. Today, descendants of these immigrants can be found throughout the country, particularly in states with large Irish-American populations such as New York, Massachusetts, and Illinois.

McNiff in the United Kingdom

While less common in the United Kingdom compared to the United States, the McNiff surname still has a presence in regions such as England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The highest incidence is in England, with 189 occurrences, followed by Scotland with 65, Wales with 9, and Northern Ireland with 2.

McNiff in Ireland

Unsurprisingly, the McNiff surname is also prevalent in its country of origin, Ireland. With 136 occurrences, McNiff is most commonly found in areas with strong Gaelic and Celtic heritage, such as County Donegal. Many Irish families with the McNiff surname can trace their ancestry back to the Mac Shníomh clan and the O'Donnell dynasty.

McNiff in Other Countries

Aside from the United States and the United Kingdom, the McNiff surname can also be found in various other countries around the world. In Canada, there are 61 occurrences of the surname, while in Australia, there are 50. Smaller numbers of McNiff families can be found in countries such as Germany, Israel, Thailand, and France, each with its own unique story of migration and assimilation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname McNiff is a fascinating and culturally significant surname with a rich history in Ireland and beyond. From its Gaelic origins to its presence in countries around the world, the McNiff surname continues to carry on the legacy of its ancestors. Whether you are a McNiff yourself or simply curious about the origins of surnames, exploring the history and variations of the McNiff surname can provide valuable insight into the interconnectedness of global cultures and societies.

The surname Mcniff into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same happens in the case of Mcniff, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname that can 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 with all the surname Mcniff is higher than in other countries.

The map of the Mcniff surname

1. United States (1527)
2. England (189)
3. Ireland (136)
4. Scotland (65)
5. Canada (61)
6. Australia (50)
7. Germany (11)
8. Wales (9)
9. Nothern Ireland (2)
10. Israel (2)
11. Thailand (2)
12. France (1)
13. Guinea-Bissau (1)
14. Italy (1)
15. Kenya (1)
16. Norway (1)
17. New Zealand (1)
18. Panama (1)
19. Saudi Arabia (1)