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Last Name Ferguson

What is the origin of the last name Ferguson?

The surname Ferguson has Scottish origins and is derived from the Gaelic "Fear-Ghus" meaning "son of Gussa". It was originally a personal name that became a surname. In Scotland, it was most common among the Clan Ferguson in the Highlands. The clan's territories were centered around Perthshire and Angus, from which the name may have originated.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ferguson

The meaning and origin of the last name Ferguson

The surname Ferguson is of Scottish and Irish origin. It is an anglicized version of the Gaelic name Fer-Gusson or MacFhearson, which means "Son of Fergus." The name Fergus itself has several possible meanings in Gaelic, such as "ferocious" or "journeying," reflecting the ancient warrior and adventurous spirit associated with this surname.

The name Ferguson was primarily found among the Highland clans of Scotland, where it was a common name among powerful families like the Campbells and MacLeods. Over time, many Fergusons emigrated from Scotland to Ireland, particularly during the Plantation of Ulster in the 17th century, where they became established as one of the principal septs of Antrim.

In modern times, notable individuals with the surname Ferguson include the former Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper, and the American television personality, Duane 'Dog' Chapman.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ferguson

The surname Ferguson is predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where it originated from the Gaelic name "Fear-Ghasun" meaning "son of Gavison." Historically, the majority of individuals with this last name resided in the Highland regions of Scotland, particularly around the counties of Perthshire, Aberdeenshire, and Inverness-shire. Over time, due to emigration, particularly during the Scottish Highland Clearances (1700s-1850s), a significant number of Fergusons settled in other parts of Scotland, as well as in Northern Ireland and North America, particularly Canada and the United States. Today, the name can also be found in England, Australia, and New Zealand, although it remains most prevalent in regions with historical Scottish and Irish ties.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ferguson

The surname Ferguson has several variants and spellings due to differences in transcription and pronunciation over time and across regions. Some of these include Ferguson, Fergusson, Ferguison, Fergusoun, Fergusone, and Fergusoun. Other variations may include MacFerguson, which indicates the name is of Scottish Gaelic origin and traditionally carried by a Clan, or Fergus, which is a shortened form of the name when used as a given name. It's important to note that these spellings may also appear with diacritics in languages such as French (Ferguson becomes Ferguson), German (Ferguson becomes Ferguson), or Spanish (Ferguson becomes Fergusón). Additionally, regional differences and cultural influences may result in alternate spellings like McFerguson or McFergusson.

Famous people with the last name Ferguson

Notable individuals sharing the surname Ferguson include:

1. Alex Ferguson, a Scottish professional football manager and former player, who managed Manchester United from 1986 to 2013, leading the club to 13 Premier League titles and two UEFA Champions League trophies.

2. Susanna Ferguson, an American actress, best known for her roles in films such as "Ghost Dad" and "The New Age." She has also appeared in numerous television series like "Star Trek: Voyager" and "Criminal Minds."

3. Jonathan Scott Ferguson, professionally known as Jono Ferguson, is a New Zealand actor, writer, and musician. He is recognized for his roles in popular TV shows like "Shortland Street," "Power Rangers RPM," and "Go Girls."

4. Jay-Z (Shawn Corey Carter), an American rapper, entrepreneur, and record executive, who started as a drug dealer before transitioning into the music industry. He has sold millions of records worldwide and is considered one of the most influential hip-hop artists of all time.

5. Judith Ferguson-McKay, a Canadian judge who serves on the Federal Court of Canada. She was appointed in 2013 by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and became the first openly lesbian federal judge in Canada's history.

Genealogical research on the last name Ferguson

The surname Ferguson is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Fearghus Mac Earca", meaning "Earl David's son Fergus". It is most closely associated with the ancient kingdom of Strathclyde in southwest Scotland and northwest England. Notable figures bearing this name include Malcolm III, King of Scots (1058–1093), and Robert I, also known as Robert the Bruce, another legendary Scottish king who reigned from 1306 to 1329. In the United States, the Ferguson family can be traced back to early settlers in Virginia during the 17th century. The name has since spread across North America due to subsequent immigration waves from Scotland and Ireland, where it is still a common surname today.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

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