The surname McLaughlin originates from Gaelic and Scottish origins, specifically from the Irish sept (clan) of O'Lochlainn, which is derived from the Gaelic name "Lochlann" meaning "foreigner" or "Norseman." The clan was based in County Tyrone in Ulster, Ireland. The name was Anglicized as Mac Lochlainn and later shortened to McLaughlin during the process of anglicization in Ireland, which took place during British rule. Over time, many members of the O'Lochlainn clan emigrated to Scotland and later to England, North America, and other countries, spreading the surname globally.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Mclaughlin
The surname McLaughlin is an Anglicized form of the Irish Gaelic name Mac Lochlainn. It derives from the Old Gaelic "Mac" (son) and "Lochlann," which means "Stranger from the North" or "Norseman." Originally, this name would have been given to someone who had a Norse or Viking ancestor. The Anglicized form of the name, McLaughlin, came about when Irish names were being anglicized during the period of British rule in Ireland, beginning in the late Middle Ages. This surname is most common among the Scottish and Northern Irish populations today. It is pronounced "Mc-Law-lin" with a stress on the first syllable.
Geographical distribution of the last name Mclaughlin
The surname McLaughlin is predominantly found in Ireland and Scotland, with a significant concentration in Ulster, Northern Ireland, due to its origins among Scottish settlers in the province during the Plantation of Ulster in the 17th century. Outside of Ireland and Scotland, the name can also be found in English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where Irish and Scottish immigrants brought the surname with them. In the U.S., McLaughlin is most common in states with a high historical Irish population such as Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.
Variants and spellings of the last name Mclaughlin
The surname Mclaughlin has several variants and spellings due to differences in transcription and pronunciation over time. Some common variations include McLoughlin, MacLoughlin, McLauglin, and MacLaughlin. These variations may arise from regional dialects or scribal errors during historical record-keeping. The name is an anglicized form of the Irish Gaelic name "Mac Lochlainn," which means "son of Lochlann." Lochlann was a Norse term used to describe Scandinavian raiders, so McLaughlin's original surname suggests Viking ancestry. It is most common in Ireland, particularly in the counties of Donegal and Tyrone. The name is also found among Irish diaspora communities worldwide.
Famous people with the last name Mclaughlin
Notable individuals with the surname McLaughlin include:
1. Conor McGregor, an Irish professional mixed martial artist and boxer, who is known for competing in Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He holds dual titles as both UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion simultaneously.
2. Mary Elizabeth McLaughlin, a Canadian actress best recognized for her role as Sarah Matheson in the television series Sliders.
3. Thomas Francis McLaughlin, a New Zealand politician who served as the 17th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1949 to 1957.
4. Michael McLaughlin, an American actor who is known for his roles in television series such as The Good Wife and Elementary.
5. Kevin McLaughlin, a former professional ice hockey defenseman who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1986 to 2000.
6. James J. McLaughlin Jr., an American lawyer and politician who served as United States Attorney for the District of Maryland from 1954 to 1973. He was instrumental in investigating and prosecuting civil rights violations, particularly those related to racial discrimination and segregation.
These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields, including sports, acting, politics, and law.
Genealogical research on the last name Mclaughlin
The surname McLaughlin originates from Ireland and is derived from the Gaelic Mac Lochlainn, which means "son of Loughlan". The name was borne by several Irish septs, including those from County Donegal, Tyrconnell, and Oriel. Some of these clans were among the most powerful in Ireland during the Middle Ages. The McLaughlin clan from Donegal was displaced from their territories during the Plantation of Ulster in the 17th century and many members emigrated to Scotland and later to England, America, and Canada. Famous bearers of the name include American actors William H. Macy and Kirstie Alley, as well as Irish politician Seán Mac Stíofáin, a leader of the Irish Republican Army during the Troubles in Northern Ireland.
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