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McLean Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning

Where did the surname McLean come from? What does the surname McLean mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name McLean and family migration on YourRoots Map.


Similar surnames:

McAloon, Lean, McClain, McClaine, McClane, McClean, McCline, McLain, McLaine, McLane

Surname McLean Origin: What does the last name McLean mean?

The McLean surname, also spelled MacLean, is a Scottish Gaelic surname derived from "Mac Gille Eathain" or "Mac Giolla Eóin," meaning "son of Gillean," with Gillean signifying "the Servant of [Saint] John [the Baptist]." This patronymic name traces its roots back to Gilleathain na Tuaidh, a renowned 5th-century warrior known as "Gillian of the Battleaxe." The clan surname MacLean has a strong presence in the Hebrides and Highlands, with notable alliances forged with various influential families throughout history.

YourRoots data indicates the early existence of the McLean surname in Scotland around the 15th century, with a subsequent global spread over the following centuries. By the 19th century, the United States witnessed a significant rise in McLean records, surpassing Scotland in frequency by the 20th century. Today, the McLean surname is prevalent in countries such as the United States and Scotland, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread presence across diverse regions.

McLean Last Name History: Where did the last name McLean come from?

Origin of Mclean Surname: Where does the last name Mclean originate from?

The earliest record of the surname Mclean in the YourRoots database is from Scotland in the United Kingdom around the early 15th century. This data is specific to the exact spelling “Mclean” and does not encompass other potential variations of the surname.

History of the Last Name Mclean: What does the Mclean surname history look like in the early days?

The Mclean surname remained closely associated with Scotland throughout the 15th to the 18th century, according to YourRoots data. Over these centuries, there was a substantial increase in the volume of Mclean records in Scotland. While Scotland was the primary center of the Mclean surname during this period, the data also indicate a growing presence in other countries, hinting at an early phase of global spread.

Global Spread: Where can we find the Mclean surname today?

By the 19th century, the frequency of Mclean records began to rise significantly in the United States. By the 20th century, the United States had surpassed Scotland in the number of Mclean records. This trend has continued into the present day, indicating a broad global spread of the Mclean surname. Today, the Mclean surname is found in many countries, with the United States and Scotland leading the list. Other countries also have a significant number of Mclean records, indicating a diversified global presence of the Mclean surname.


Explore McLean last name heritage and McLean surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

McLean surname origin, history, meaning based on YourRoots Map dataVIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME MCLEAN

Famous People With McLean Surame?

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Don McLean

    Don McLean

    Donald McLean III (born Oct 2, 1945) is an American singer-songwriter known for hits like "American Pie" and "Vincent". He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004 and has had his songs recorded by artists like Elvis Presley and Madonna.

  • YourRoots Map_Surname_Famous People_Whyman McLean

    Whyman McLean

    Whyman McLean (c. 1860 - Dec 23, 1926) was an Aboriginal Australian missionary turned police tracker. Serving for 30 years, he recovered 34 bodies from the Murrumbidgee River and helped capture over 120 fugitives. His dedication and skills left a lasting impact on law enforcement in New South Wales.

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