Duncan Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Duncan come from? What does the surname Duncan mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Duncan and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Donahue, Dinkin, Donkin, Duncanson, Dunkin
Surname Duncan Origin: What does the last name Duncan mean?
The surname Duncan is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic names Donncheann or Donnchadh, meaning "brown" or "dark chief" or "noble." In some cases, it is an Anglicized form of Irish Gaelic names MacDonough or Mac Donnchadha and Ó Duinnchinn, meaning "descendant of Donncheann." The surname Duncan is represented in Scottish Gaelic as MacDhonn.
YourRoots data indicates that the Duncan surname first appeared in records from Scotland in the early 9th century. Over the centuries, it remained closely associated with Scotland and spread to England, eventually becoming prominent in the United States and other regions worldwide. Today, the Duncan surname can be found in various countries, reflecting its enduring legacy and global presence.
Duncan Last Name History: Where did the last name Duncan come from?
Origin of Duncan Surname: Where does the last name Duncan originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Duncan first appeared in records from Scotland, United Kingdom, around the early 9th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Duncan” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Duncan: What does the Duncan surname history look like in the early days?
The “Duncan” surname remained closely associated with Scotland, United Kingdom from the 9th through the 16th century. YourRoots data also shows Duncan family records in England, indicating a spread within the United Kingdom over these centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Duncan surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Duncan surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had surpassed the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. The “Duncan” surname remains prominent in the United States and other regions worldwide. While specific country data for the 20th century is not available, we can infer from the overall trends that the Duncan surname is likely found in many countries worldwide.
Explore Duncan last name heritage and Duncan surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Duncan Surame?
Michael Clarke Duncan
Michael Clarke Duncan (Dec 10, 1957 - Sep 3, 2012) was a beloved American actor known for his breakout role as John Coffey in "The Green Mile" and as Kingpin in Marvel's "Daredevil." He also appeared in hits like "Armageddon," "Sin City," and voiced characters in "Kung Fu Panda" and "Green Lantern."
Sandy Duncan
Sandra Kay Duncan (born Feb 20, 1946) is an American actress, comedian, dancer, and singer. Known for Broadway's Peter Pan, sitcom The Hogan Family, and Disney films. Nominated for Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe Awards.
Duncan started her career at 12, with notable roles in TV shows and movies. Overcame a health challenge but continued to shine on stage and screen. A versatile talent with a lasting impact on entertainment.
Augustin Duncan
Augustin Duncan (April 17, 1873 - 1954) was an American actor and director known for his work in New York and London during the early 20th century. He was part of the Theatre Guild and later directed and acted in various productions, despite losing his eyesight in the late 1920s.
Niclas Gustaf Duncan
Niclas Gustaf Duncan (20 Nov 1711 - 23 Apr 1771) was a Swedish post official and spy. He worked as a double agent for Carl Gustaf Tessin, spying on the Russian diplomat Johann Albrecht Korff while under the guise of spying on Herman Cedercreutz in Russia.
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