McCoy Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname McCoy come from? What does the surname McCoy mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name McCoy and family migration on YourRoots Map.
McGee, McCay, McGue, McKoy, McQuay
Surname McCoy Origin: What does the last name McCoy mean?
The McCoy surname has origins in both Scotland and Ireland, with the Scottish variation stemming from the Irish surnames McGee and McHugh. In Irish, Mac Aodha translates to "son of Aodh," with Aodh being a deity in Irish mythology associated with fire. The first bearers of the Mac Aodha surname were the grandsons of Aodh, a son of Ruaidhrí mac Coscraigh, King of South Connacht, Ireland. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Scottish MacKays settled in Ulster, particularly Northern Ireland, adopting the McCoy surname.
YourRoots data indicates that the McCoy surname first appeared in Scotland in the early 16th century before expanding to Ireland. Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, McCoy family records grew in the United States, signifying a significant migration over the centuries. By the 18th century, the McCoy surname had become more prevalent in the United States than in its countries of origin. Today, the McCoy surname remains prominent in the United States and is also found in various countries worldwide, although the highest concentration is in the United States.
McCoy Last Name History: Where did the last name McCoy come from?
Origin of McCoy Surname: Where does the last name McCoy originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the McCoy surname first appears in records from Scotland, United Kingdom around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “McCoy” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name McCoy: What does the McCoy surname history look like in the early days?
The “McCoy” surname remained closely associated with Scotland and Ireland from the 16th through the 17th century. YourRoots data also shows McCoy family records expanding rapidly into the United States during the 18th century, indicating a significant spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the McCoy surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of records with the McCoy surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 19th century, it had surpassed Scotland and Ireland, a trend that continued into the 20th century. The “McCoy” surname remains prominent in the United States and other regions worldwide. According to YourRoots, it appears in many countries, although the highest concentration is clearly in the United States.
Explore McCoy last name heritage and McCoy surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With McCoy Surame?
LisaRaye McCoy
LisaRaye McCoy (born Sep 23, 1967) is an American actress known for her roles in The Players Club and Single Ladies. She was also the First Lady of Turks and Caicos during her marriage to the first Premier, Michael Misick.
Andy McCoy
Antti Hulkko (born Oct 11, 1962) also known as Andy McCoy, was a Finnish musician famous for his role as lead guitarist and main songwriter of Hanoi Rocks. He played with Iggy Pop and explored various music genres like rock 'n' roll, punk rock, and glam rock.
Ann Wyeth McCoy
Ann Wyeth McCoy (Mar 15, 1915 - Nov 10, 2005) was an American composer, pianist, and painter. The youngest daughter of artist N.C. Wyeth, she composed music for various occasions and exhibited her artwork at the Brandywine River Museum. McCoy's passion for antique porcelain dolls also influenced her creative pursuits.
Mary McCoy
Mary McCoy (1820s - 7 October 1899) was an Irish nurse known for her exceptional service during the American Civil War. She bravely cared for wounded soldiers, earning praise from General McClellan and even sharing a memorable moment with President Lincoln. Her dedication to nursing and bravery on the battlefield left a lasting legacy.
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