Surname MacLarran - Meaning and Origin
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MacLarran: What does the surname MacLarran mean?
The surname MacLarran is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic language. It is a patronymic surname, which means it is based on the name of a male ancestor. The prefix "Mac" in the surname is a common Scottish prefix meaning "son of.” The second part of the name, "Larran" does not have a definitive meaning easily accessible in historical or linguistic records. It is possible that Larran was an individual's first name.
As with many Scottish surnames, families with the name MacLarran are thought to belong to a Scottish clan, a kinship group that shares a common ancestor. However, there is no specific clan named MacLarran, suggesting that the surname could belong to a smaller, lesser-known family or may have changed significantly from its original spelling.
Like many surnames, the specific lineage, history, and meaning can be difficult to trace without detailed genealogical research. It is always worthwhile for individuals interested in the meaning and history of their surname to consult genealogical resources or experts for their specific lineage. As is, the MacLarran surname is likely to carry a rich history connecting its bearers to Scotland's vibrant and complex past.
Order DNA origin analysisMacLarran: Where does the name MacLarran come from?
The last name MacLarran is of Scottish origin, deriving from the Gaelic language. The prefix "Mac" in Scottish and Irish names denotes "son of." Therefore, MacLarran might indicate "son of Larran." The exact roots and meaning of "Larran" within this context are, however, not wholly established. Over time, varying spellings have emerged including McLaren, MacLaren, McLaran and many others due to anarchy in the spelling of names in early Scottish history.
The MacLarran surname is not extremely common today in any specific region, given its diverse and dispersed descendants. However, it's still more prevalent in areas with high Scottish ancestry such as Scotland itself, other parts of the UK, and countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand because of historical migration patterns. It should be noted that the exact prevalence could change based on the different spellings and phonetic variants of the name.
In recent years, the MacLarran name may be known for its association with popular culture figures, such as the fictional character Barney Stinson (played by Neil Patrick Harris) from the television show "How I Met Your Mother," who often used 'McLaren’s Pub' as their hangout spot.
Variations of the surname MacLarran
The surname MacLarran is of Scottish origin and is derived from the personal name Laurence. The surname has several spelling variations. Some of these variations include McLaren, MacLaren, McLarin, MacLaron, MacLaurin, and MacLeren.
The MacLaren clan originated in the area of Perthshire in Scotland. Some members of the MacLaren clan moved to Ireland during the Plantation of Ulster, an event that led to the colonization of Ireland with settlers from Scotland and England. This resulted in Irish variations of the surname, such as McLauren and McLarnon.
The surname can also appear with the prefixes "Mac" or "Mc," which both mean "son of." Accordingly, the names MacLarran and McLarran are both used and are essentially identical in meaning.
Some more distortions of this surname in different records, due to phonetic spelling by clerks, illiteracy, or translation between languages, may yield forms such as Larry, Lawrenson, and Larnson, which have the same root with Laurence.
The exact spelling of surnames was not a priority until recent centuries, hence the vast number of spellings that exist today for many surnames.
Famous people with the name MacLarran
- Colin MacLarran: a British actor and writer
- Susan MacLarran: a Canadian folk singer and folklorist
- Michael MacLarran: a Scottish author and poet
- Angus MacLarran: a professional Groundskeeper
- Doug MacLarran: a Canadian-born racing driver
- Stuart MacLarran: a Canadian television actor
- Aileen MacLarran: a Scottish writer and spiritual leader
- Mairi MacLarran: a British visual artist
- Duncan MacLarran: an Australian musician
- Robert MacLarran: a British composer and lyricist