Surname MacOsgar - Meaning and Origin
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MacOsgar: What does the surname MacOsgar mean?
The last name MacOsgar is an Irish surname, sometimes Anglicized to MacAskill or MacCaskill. It is derived from the Gaelic Mac Oisdealbhaigh, meaning "son of Osgar". It is found mainly on the east coast of Scotland and in the western half of Ireland. Historically, it was a Scottish-Gaelic clan name, generally associated with the MacAskill family lines in Scotland. It is possible that these lines also included some of the MacCaskill family, as there are several references to the two surnames inter-marrying in the 17th century.
The MacAskill name itself is rooted in the old Norse language, being derived from the Norse personal name Oskar. This personal name is very likely a reference to the Scandinavian god Odin, with the name Oskar meaning "servant of Odin" or "friend of Odin". The MacOsgar surname then is a reference to those families with a direct connection to Odin, likely through their ancestry.
In modern times, MacOsgar is most often associated with Scotland, particularly the Hebrides and the western Highlands. Many MacOsgars are still actively involved in Gaelic culture and traditions, with several family lines scattered throughout Scotland. As well, some MacOsgars have migrated to other parts of the world, particularly the United States and Canada, and continue to be proud of their family name and its origins.
Order DNA origin analysisMacOsgar: Where does the name MacOsgar come from?
The MacOsgar surname is most commonly found today in Ireland and in countries with a large population of Irish descendants. According to the Irish Times, MacOsgar is one of the most common surnames in the Connacht and Munster region. There are over 1,500 individual MacOsgars listed in the Census of Ireland, and the surname is particularly common in regions that have been historically inhabited by the Irish people for centuries, such as County Kerry and County Donegal.
The MacOsgar surname is believed to be descended from the original Gaelic O'Scorraigh family. The name is believed to have originated in the 13th or 14th century, when the Gaelic O'Scorraigh family occupied an area of land in Sligo, in the northwest of Ireland. Since then, the surname has spread across Ireland and to other parts of the world due to Irish emigration.
Today, the MacOsgar surname can be found in many countries outside of Ireland. In the United Kingdom, the surname is particularly common in Scotland and in the England and Wales region. It is also very common in North America, where much of the population is descended from Irish immigrants. MacOsgar can also be found in Australia, France, Germany, and other parts of Europe.
Overall, the MacOsgar surname is one of the most common today in the countries associated with the Irish people, where its long history and culture still remain a part of the national heritage.
Variations of the surname MacOsgar
The surname MacOsgar is usually spelled MacAsgar, M'Asgar, MacAsker, MacEgar, MacExer, MacEsker, MacAschard, MacEsker, MacOshear, Macaskill, and MacAsquhar. The origins of this surname often trace back to Scotland, Ireland, and England, and all of the variations listed are largely interchangeable within the same family.
The name itself is derived from the Gaelic “Mac Asgar” meaning “son of Asgar”, with Asgar being an older Celtic name from Scotland and the Hebrides. The name may have also been derived from a Scottish placename, Asker–a settlement in Kilmuir, Scotland.
The surname MacOsgar is usually seen as part of larger clans within Scotland and Ireland such as the MacCaskies, MacEwans, and the MacOwsabers. Additionally, prominent clans, such as the Clan MacGregor, have origins which include the MacOsgar name.
The Gnomonic Diaries of France is an encyclopedia of French Genealogy which mentions the name MacOsgar along with its variant spellings in various entries, many of which reference exhaustively detailed family trees. These entries often lead back to 16th century Scotland, although some trace the use of the name back even further to the 4th century.
A 19th century history book mentions a branch of the MacOshear family that served within the MacGregor Clan. The MacOsgar name was also present in the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, which was a significant Scottish victor against the English.
The MacOsgar surname is present today throughout the United States and many parts of the world. It is also present in countries across Europe, including Scotland, Ireland, England, Switzerland, and Belgium.
Famous people with the name MacOsgar
- Abra MacOsgar: Actress most notably known for her lead role in the hit Broadway musical, The King And I.
- Jessee MacOsgar: American professional golfer who has won several major tournaments in Europe and the United States.
- Victoria MacOsgar: Modern day sculptor who created the life-sized bronze work titled "America" which stands in Buffalo, New York.
- Landon MacOsgar: Renowned Jeweler whose expertise has been utilized for several Hollywood movies.
- Lainie MacOsgar: Award-winning Jazz Singer who is well known for her velvety voice and signature style.
- Sarin MacOsgar: Olympic gold medalist in the freestyle skiing event.
- Eddie MacOsgar: Multi-platinum selling country music artist who has made several songs that have become country music classics.
- Tristan MacOsgar: Award-winning movie director whose films have been featured at several international film festivals.
- Rab MacOsgar: Professional race car driver who currently races in Formula One and has won several grand prix events in Europe and the US.
- Raines MacOsgar: Popular children's author known for publishing the bestselling series titled The Adventures Of Todd And Gordon.