The surname "McLemore" is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic Mac Gabhra Mor, which translates to "son of the great smith." It's a variant of the more common Scottish surname, McLeod or MacLeod. This name was often given to children born to a family with many sons, as a way to differentiate them. In this case, 'Mor' (meaning 'big' or 'great') was added to distinguish from other smiths in the same clan. The McLemore family is traditionally associated with the Isle of Lewis and Harris in the Western Isles of Scotland.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Mclemore
The meaning and origin of the last name Mclemore
The surname McLemore is a variant of the Scottish surname MacLormaig, which is derived from the Gaelic name Lormaig or Lorcán mac Mael-Morna, meaning "Lorcán son of Mael Murrough." The name's Anglicized form, McLemore, is less common than its original spelling. It originated in the Western Isles (Hebrides) and Argyllshire regions of Scotland, where it was borne by clans who claimed descent from a common ancestor named Lormaig. Over time, as Gaelic-speaking Scots migrated to other parts of Scotland, Ireland, and eventually North America, variations of the name emerged, including McLeary, McLaren, MacLure, and McLemore (McLemore being one such variant). In its various forms, the surname remains relatively uncommon today but continues to be associated with Scottish heritage.
Geographical distribution of the last name Mclemore
The surname McLemore is predominantly found in regions with Scottish ancestry due to its Gaelic origin, primarily spelled MacLimore or MacLeamoir in Scotland. Historically, it was most common in the Western Isles and the Highland region, particularly in counties such as Inverness-shire, Ross-shire, and Argyllshire. Today, significant populations of McLemore descendants can be found outside Scotland, primarily in North America. The United States, specifically in states with a high Scottish immigrant population like Texas, Virginia, Tennessee, and Missouri, has a considerable number of individuals bearing the name. Canada, particularly in Nova Scotia and Ontario, also hosts a sizable McLemore community. These geographical distributions reflect the historical migration patterns of Scots to North America during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Variants and spellings of the last name Mclemore
The surname Mclemore has several variations and spellings. Some common variations include MacLeamore, McLeamore, MacLemore, McLemore, MacLearmor, McLearmor, MacLearmour, and McLearmour. These variations arise from differences in the original Gaelic spelling or phonetic spelling in English, as well as regional dialects within Scotland where the name originated. It is also possible to find less common variants such as MacLeamour, McLeamour, MacLearme, McLearme, and others due to historical or typographical changes over time. It is important to note that the spelling of a surname can vary based on factors like the transcription of names from Gaelic to English, migration patterns, and personal preference.
Famous people with the last name Mclemore
Notable individuals with the last name McLemore include:
1. Toni Braxton - An American singer-songwriter who has sold over 67 million records worldwide, and is best known for hits like "Unbreak My Heart" and "He Wasn't Man Enough."
2. Aja McLemore - An American fashion designer who was a finalist on Project Runway season 15. She is recognized for her avant-garde designs that celebrate diversity and body positivity.
3. Brian McLemore - A retired American professional basketball player, known for his exceptional shooting ability. He played in the NBA from 2006 to 2009 with teams like the Chicago Bulls and Toronto Raptors.
4. Dionne McLemore - An American actress who has appeared in television shows such as "Girlfriends" and "The Game." She is also a recording artist, known for her single "Love On You."
5. Mary McLeod Bethune - A prominent African-American educator, stateswoman, philanthropist, and civil rights leader during the early 20th century. As founder of the National Council of Negro Women, she was an influential advocate for education and women's rights.
Genealogical research on the last name Mclemore
The surname McLemore originates from Scotland, specifically the Highland region, and is of Gaelic origin. The name translates to "son of the chief" or "son of the leader." Variations of this name include MacLeod, MacLeam, and MacLewis. The Clan MacLeod, one of the oldest clans in Scotland, is associated with Lewis and Harris islands off the northwest coast of mainland Scotland. Historical records show that members of this clan immigrated to North America as early as the 17th century, settling primarily in Canada and the United States. Notable figures bearing the McLemore name include Sir Roderick MacLeod (1820-1895), a Scottish physician and philanthropist, and James A. McLemore (1864-1937), an American soldier who served during the Philippine–American War. Genealogical research on the McLemore name can be found in various online databases, historical records, and clan genealogies of Scotland.
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