Last Name Mac-namara

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mac-namara

The meaning and origin of the last name Mac-namara

The surname Mac Namara is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic Mac Conmara, which means "son of the hound of the sea." The Mac Namara clan was originally located in County Clare in Ireland and they were known for their association with the waters of the River Shannon. The name is believed to have originated from the founder of the clan, Cumara, who was said to have been a skilled swimmer and navigator. The Mac Namaras were a prominent Gaelic family with a strong connection to the sea, and their name reflects this heritage. Today, the surname Mac Namara is still found mainly in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mac-namara

The last name Mac Namara is most commonly found in Ireland, particularly in the counties of Clare, Limerick, and Tipperary. It is an Irish Gaelic surname derived from "Mac Conmara," meaning "son of the hound of the sea." The Mac Namara family historically held significant power and influence in the region, with ties to the O'Brien dynasty. However, due to emigration patterns in the 19th and 20th centuries, Mac Namara descendants can also be found in countries such as the United States, Australia, and Canada. Today, the surname is still prevalent in Ireland, but its global dispersion reflects the broader trends of Irish migration throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mac-namara

The last name Mac Namara can also be spelled as MacNamara, Macnomara, Macnamara, Macnamarra, Mcnamara, Mcnamarra, and Mcanamara. These variations may have originated from different sources, such as different regions or family branches. The surname Mac Namara is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic Mac Conmara, meaning "son of the hound of the sea." It is a common surname in Ireland and can be found in various spellings due to historical factors such as illiteracy, immigration, and anglicization. Despite the different spellings, they all refer to the same family name and have the same historical significance. Whether you come across someone with the last name Mac Namara, MacNamara, or any other variation, they are likely connected to the same Irish heritage and ancestry.

Famous people with the last name Mac-namara

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name MacNamara include Sir John MacNamara, an Irish politician and lawyer who served as Lord Mayor of Dublin in the early 20th century. Another notable figure is Eoghan MacNamara, a renowned Irish sculptor and painter known for his abstract works and contributions to the modern art movement. In the world of sports, Kevin MacNamara gained fame as a professional basketball player in the United States, playing for several teams in the NBA during the 1980s. These individuals have each made significant contributions to their respective fields and have helped to bring recognition to the MacNamara name.

Genealogical research on the last name Mac-namara

The surname Mac Namara is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic Mac Conmara, meaning "son of the hound of the sea." The Mac Namara clan originated in County Clare, where they were powerful landowners and held the title of Chief of Clann Cuilein. Their lineage can be traced back to Cennétig Mac Lorcáin, the father of Brian Boru, who was a High King of Ireland in the 10th century. The Mac Namaras were known for their military prowess and their involvement in the medieval battles of Ireland. Over the centuries, the clan spread to different parts of Ireland and the world, with Mac Namaras being found in countries such as the United States, Australia, and Canada. Today, descendants of the Mac Namara clan can be found across the globe, with a strong sense of pride in their ancient heritage.