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.
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 – Sept 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" and "Spider-Man: The New Animated Series". With his deep voice, Duncan also lent his talents to voice roles in films like "Kung Fu Panda" and "Green Lantern". His impressive career included appearances in popular movies such as "Armageddon", "Sin City", and "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby". Duncan's powerful performances and gentle demeanor left a lasting impact on audiences around the world.
Tim Duncan
Timothy Theodore Duncan (April 25, 1976 - ) is a retired American basketball player who spent his entire career with the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. Known as "the Big Fundamental," he is considered one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history, winning five championships and numerous MVP awards. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Duncan initially pursued swimming but switched to basketball after a hurricane destroyed his pool. He excelled in college at Wake Forest University before being drafted first overall by the Spurs in 1997. A dominant force on both ends of the court, Duncan's impact on the Spurs franchise and the NBA as a whole is legendary.
Lindsay Duncan
Lindsay Vere Duncan (born 7 Nov 1950) is a Scottish actress known for her work on stage, screen, and television. She has received multiple awards, including two Olivier Awards and a Tony Award for her stage performances. Duncan has appeared in a wide range of roles, from Shakespearean plays to popular films like "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" and "Alice in Wonderland." Her versatility and talent have made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry, with a career spanning decades. Duncan continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performances and dedication to her craft.
Isadora Duncan
Angela Isadora Duncan (May 26, 1877, or May 27, 1878 – September 14, 1927) was an American-born dancer and choreographer known for pioneering modern contemporary dance. She gained acclaim in Europe and the U.S., blending natural movements with Greek-inspired aesthetics. Duncan's innovative approach to dance challenged traditional ballet, inspiring artists like Rodin and Bourdelle. She toured extensively, captivating audiences with her unique style. Duncan's life was marked by tragedy, including financial struggles and personal losses, but her legacy as a dance icon endures. Her influence on the arts and culture of the early 20th century remains significant, making her a trailblazer in the world of dance.
Sandy Duncan
Sandra Kay Duncan (born Feb 20, 1946) is an American actress, comedian, dancer, and singer known for her roles in the Broadway revival of Peter Pan, the sitcom The Hogan Family, and Disney films like The Million Dollar Duck. She received multiple award nominations for her work in theater, television, and film throughout her career. Duncan overcame adversity, including a benign brain tumor surgery that affected her vision, to continue entertaining audiences with her talents. Her extensive resume includes Broadway performances, TV guest appearances, and voice work in animated series, making her a versatile and beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
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