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Last Name Boag

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What is the origin of the last name Boag?

The surname Boag is of Scottish origin and is derived from the medieval Gaelic name Bagh, Baghach, or Bag, which means "dweller near a marsh." The name may have also been a nickname for someone who lived by a marsh or bog. It's worth noting that Scottish surnames did not become hereditary until the 12th century when the Normans introduced the feudal system to Scotland, and it was then that most Scots adopted their current surnames.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Boag

The meaning and origin of the last name Boag

The surname Boag is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Bagha," which means son of Bagh. Bagh was a personal name that may have several possible interpretations, such as "baker" or "lively one." The Boag clan originated in the region of Moray in northeastern Scotland and were associated with the Earls of Mar, a powerful noble family in medieval Scotland. The Boags took part in various historical events, including the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century. Over time, variations of the name such as Bag, Baig, Boehm, and Boggs emerged due to phonetic changes and migration patterns. Today, individuals with the surname Boag can be found primarily in Scotland, as well as other English-speaking countries where Scottish immigrants settled.

Geographical distribution of the last name Boag

The surname Boag is primarily concentrated in Scotland and England, reflecting its Scottish origins. Historically, it originated from the Borders region, specifically around Peebles and the surrounding areas. Over time, the Boag family dispersed throughout Scotland, with significant populations found in cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. The surname also spread to Northern England due to migration and historical events such as the Union of the Crowns in 1603. Today, Boag is still prevalent in these areas but can also be found in parts of North America, Australia, and New Zealand due to Scottish immigration during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Boag

The surname Boag has several variations and spellings across different regions and historical periods. Some common variations include Bog, Boak, Bogg, Baug, Bag, Bayg, Beag, and Bowg. These variations may have arisen due to spelling inconsistencies in records, as well as regional dialects and pronunciations. The name is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic "bagh" meaning "dweller by the oak tree." It was also used as a nickname for someone who was strong or sturdy, similar to the English term "oak." Some famous people with this surname include actor and filmmaker Alan Booth (also known as Alan Boag), and author and playwright J.M. Barrie, whose birth name was James Matthew Barrie Boar.

Famous people with the last name Boag

Notable individuals with the surname Boag include:

1. John Boag (born 1947), Scottish footballer who played for clubs like Leeds United and Manchester City, as well as the Scotland national team.
2. David Boag (1826-1890), a British Army officer who served in the Second Opium War and was involved in the Siege of Taku Forts.
3. Paul Boag (born 1974), a British web designer, author, speaker, and founder of Headscape Ltd., a digital agency based in Brighton, England. He is also the host of the podcast This Old Web.
4. Lois Boag (1906-2000), an American actress who appeared in films such as "The Big Broadcast" and "Kentucky Kernels."
5. Rory Boag (born 1980), a Scottish former footballer who played for clubs like Heart of Midlothian, Livingston, and Dundee United. He is also the son of John Boag mentioned earlier.
6. Jamie Boag (born 1962), a Scottish politician who served as the leader of the Liberal Democrats in Scotland from 2008 to 2014.
7. Thomas Boag (1858-1937), a British civil servant and politician who served as Chief Secretary for India from 1924 to 1926.

These individuals have made significant contributions in various fields, including sports, politics, and entertainment.

Genealogical research on the last name Boag

The Boag surname is of Scottish origin, specifically from the Lowlands region. It is believed to have derived from several sources, including a nickname for a person with red or ruddy complexion, derived from the Old Norse word "bogg," meaning redhead or bearded. Another theory suggests it could be an occupational name for a baker, originating from the Middle English term "baker" or "bocher." The Boag family can be traced back to William de Boye, who was recorded in the Register of the Priory of Holy Trinity, Edinburgh in 1329. Notable individuals with the surname Boag include Scottish historian John Boe (died c.1504), and Sir Thomas Boothby Boag, a British general during World War I. The Boag clan does not have an official tartan, but some family associations suggest using the Buchanan or Montgomery tartans as they are traditionally associated with the area from where many Boags originated.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
About the author :

NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

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