Surname Mackian - Meaning and Origin
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Mackian: What does the surname Mackian mean?
The last name Mackian is of Scottish origin, and is thought to have derived from the Gaelic surname MacCian. This surname is believed to be derived from the Gaelic root “Mac” which loosely translates as “son of” and “cian” which may mean ancient and wise. Therefore, Mackian is thought to mean “son of the wise one.”
The Mackian surname is found primarily in Scotland and some locations in Northern Ireland. The variants of the name include MacIan, MacKain, MacKean, MacKeane, Aikens, and possibly Mackinnon.
These Mackians were thought to have originated in Scotland from a group of Celtic tribes, who settled and eventually migrated to different parts of the country. The Mackian name can be traced back to early recordings of ancient Scottish clergy, who are thought to be amongst the origins of the Mackian name.
The Mackian name has gained a reputation for being strong minded individuals who are determined and dependable. Many Mackians have gone on to make great achievements, such as William Mackian who was a notable soldier in the British Army and winner of the Victoria Cross for his outstanding service during World War II.
In summary, Mackian is a Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic phrase “son of the wise one” and is associated with a strong mindedness and determination. Notable Mackians have gone on to make great achievements, and the name has a long and proud history in Scotland.
Order DNA origin analysisMackian: Where does the name Mackian come from?
The last name Mackian (or McKean) is primarily believed to be an Irish and Scottish surname, and is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Mac Eoin which is derived from the given name Eoin meaning ‘God is gracious’.
Today, Mackian is one of the top 100 surnames in both Scotland and the Irish Republic. It is most commonly found in the eastern and central parts of Scotland, especially in the Lothian and Borders regions, as well as in Northern Ireland. There is also a larger concentration of Mackian’s in the north-east of England, primarily in Northumberland, County Durham, and Teeside.
Outside of the British Isles, the last name Mackian is found particularly in the United States and Australia. In the US, it is most prevalent in the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, Illinois, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Australia is home to a much smaller population, however, Mackian is still found widely across the continent, with strong concentrations of the name in Victoria and Tasmania.
Overall, the last name Mackian is still relatively common today, although is found with greatest frequency in its native land, the British Isles.
Variations of the surname Mackian
Mackian is a Scottish surname of great antiquity. The meaning of the word has been much debated, but it is believed to refer to the 'son of' a leader, and is most likely derived from the Gaelic 'Mac' meaning son and 'Caan' meaning leader.
Variants of the same origin are many, arising mainly from various spellings and dialects of the Gaelic language. A few examples include MacCian, MacKan, MacKien, MacKine, MacK owned, Mackyen, MacKyon and Makeane.
The most common Anglo-Saxon spelling is Mackian, and there are some other surnames with a potentially related history. These include Mackin, Mackinaw, Mackinnon, McKinney and McKinlay.
A variant form of the name, McKearin, is found mainly in Ireland where it is of different origin. It is thought to derive from the Irish phrase 'Mac Giolla Rua', meaning 'son of the red-haired servant'.
All of these derivatives share a common origin in the Gaelic language and refer, in some way, to a leader, nobility or high status. In the days of Clan chiefs, the Mackians were a family of some significance. It is not surprising, then, that the surname is so widely found throughout the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
Famous people with the name Mackian
- Shanna Mackian: Artist, Designer, and Writer
- Laura Mackian: Social Entrepreneur & Women’s Rights Activist
- Josh Mackian: Footballer
- Jada Mackian: Singer & Songwriter
- Juliette Mackian: Actress
- Caleb Mackian: Musician
- Shawn Mackian: YouTube Personality
- Taylor Mackian: Professional Golfer
- Harrison Mackian: Actor
- Dakota Mackian: Author & Voice Actor