Surname MacLairish - Meaning and Origin
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MacLairish: What does the surname MacLairish mean?
The last name MacLairish is derived from the Gaelic Mac Giolla Riabhaigh, meaning “son of the grey one”. It is a sept of the Clan Maclean, found mainly in the Scottish Highlands.
The MacLairish clan is descended from the ancient royal house of Lorn, which traces its roots back to Ireland and the 10th century. It was during this time that the original clan leader, Giolla Riabhaigh Mac an Ghabhainn, formed the MacLairish clan and assumed the title ‘Maclean’.
The MacLairishes typically lived in the canton of Cowal in Argyll, on the western coast of Scotland. They were generally peaceful, but did take part in a few rebellions against English rule, notably under the leadership of Gilleasbaig Buigh Mac an Ghabhann, who successfully restored the Macdonalds to their ancestral estate on Islay in the 1640s.
Throughout its history, the MacLairish have remained a proud and loyal clan, contributing members to the military, local government, and the Church in Scotland and Ireland. Today, many trace their roots back to the early MacLairish and proudly carry the name, likely never more so than during the MacLairish Gathering of 2014, in Islay, Scotland. Here, people of all ages celebrated their shared heritage, culture, and ancestry.
Order DNA origin analysisMacLairish: Where does the name MacLairish come from?
The last name MacLairish is most common in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Canada today.
The MacLairishes are believed to be descended from Clan MacDuff of Fife who owned lands in Strathardle, Perthshire.The modern-day MacLairish surname is believed to have originated in the 13th century in Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic Mac Labhruis (son of Labhruis) and is pronounced Macla-rish.
The MacLairishes of Strathardle were noted for their support of the Stuart dynasty in the 17th century. They are also known for their involvement in the buildings of Duart Castle and Inveraray Castle in Scotland.
The Clan MacLairish is not as popular as the clans of the same name as MacLear, MacLair, MacLaren and McClare - which are all completely different clans. The majority of the remaining MacLairish in Scotland are found in the areas of Aberdeenshire, Angus and Perthshire.
In Canada, most MacLairish are found on the west coast. Particularly in British Columbia, Alberta and Vancouver. It is believed that many MacLairsihs left Scotland for Canada during the Scottish emigration of the 19th century.
In Northern Ireland, the majority of the remaining populace of the MacLairish circles around County Antrim and County Down, especially in the towns of Belfast and Kilrea.
In conclusion, the majority of the last name MacLairish can be found in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Canada today.
Variations of the surname MacLairish
There are many variants, spellings and surnames of the same origin for the surname MacLairish. The most commonly found spelling variations include MacLaurish, McLaurish, MacLaurish, McLaurin, McLaurine, MacLarin, McLarin and MacLarren. Other variants such as McLarren, MacLaren, McLaren, McLair, MacClare, McLaire, MacClaire, and MacClaire can also be found.
The surname MacLairish is derived from the Scottish Gaelic MacLabhruis which means “son of Labhruis”. Labhruis (sometimes written as Labhraidh) is a Scottish Gaelic male name that includes the element Labhra which means ‘speaker’ or ‘loudmouth’. This element is derived from the Old Gaelic luch-bratuZe which literally translates to “multitudinous flow”, referring to the speaker’s ability to speak passionately and with eloquence. This surname can be found in many areas of Scotland, especially in the Hebrides Islands and the Highlands, but may also be found in Canada and America due to the migration of Scots centuries ago.
No matter how it’s spelled, the MacLairish surname is an important part of Scottish Gaelic and Clan Maclaurin history. It’s a name steeped in tradition and respect, and it serves as a reminder of the strength, courage and power of the people who bear it.
Famous people with the name MacLairish
- Karen McElroy MacLairish: A professional dancer, Karen has been performing in musicals for the past 25 years. She is best known for her role in the Broadway adaptation of "Digging Up the Dead".
- Doug MacLairish: An author, Doug is the author of three critically acclaimed novels, including the best-selling "Glimpses of Life".
- Mike MacLairish: A singer-songwriter, Mike has been performing for over 25 years. He has collaborated with renowned producers and songwriters and has released four solo albums.
- Dan MacLairish: An actor, Dan is best known for his leading roles in independent films, including "The Unstoppable Man".
- Chris MacLairish: A comedian, Chris is the mastermind behind the hit comedy show "MacLairish Tonight". He has been featured on the BBC and has a large presence in the international comedy circuit.
- Lisa MacLairish: A journalist, Lisa is the host of the popular podcast "MacLairish Explained". She has written extensively on topics such as religion, politics, and culture.
- Cameron MacLairish: A gymnast, Cameron is a four-time winner of the USA Gymnastics national championship. He also competed in the 2020 Olympic Games.
- Martin MacLairish: A chef, Martin is the head chef at the acclaimed "MacLairish Cuisine". His unique style of fusion cooking has earned him international recognition.
- John MacLairish: A visual artist, John is known for his surrealistic paintings that have been showcased in galleries across the globe.
- Brendan MacLairish: A professional hockey player, Brendan is one of the best players in his league. He is lauded for his hard-hitting style and top-notch goaltending skills.