Last Name Mcmanus

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mcmanus

The meaning and origin of the last name Mcmanus

The surname McManus originates from Gaelic Ireland and is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic name Mac Mhaomanais. "Mac" means son of, while "Mhaomanais" refers to the personal name Muireadhach or Murtough, which translates to 'mariner' or 'sea warrior.' This surname was often given to children born near the sea or to those who had maritime occupations. The Anglicized form, McManus, emerged during the 16th and 17th centuries as a result of English colonization in Ireland and represents one of the many Irish names that were adapted into a more English-sounding form. Today, McManus is found primarily among Irish diaspora communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mcmanus

The surname McManus, derived from an anglicized form of the Gaelic Mac Manus, is predominantly found in Ireland, particularly in counties Donegal, Derry, and Antrim which are part of Ulster province. It is also distributed in other parts of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. McManuses can be found in significant numbers in Scotland, specifically in Aberdeen and Lanarkshire, due to historical migrations. In North America, a substantial number of people with this surname are descendants of Irish immigrants, primarily concentrated in the United States, particularly in states like New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Ohio. The name is also found in Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking countries, indicating dispersals during colonial times and subsequent migrations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mcmanus

The surname McManus has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transcription over time and across regions. Some of these variants include MacManus, MacManes, MacMannis, MacManes, MacMonnies, and MacMennis. Additionally, the name can be anglicized from the Gaelic Mac Mhainnís, which translates to "son of the smith." The first name Mhainnís (or Manus) is often shortened to Mánus in modern Irish usage. In Scottish Gaelic, the name would be Mac Shaoighearna or MacShawyer, meaning "son of the shoemaker," reflecting an alternative origin theory.

Famous people with the last name Mcmanus

Notable individuals sharing the last name McManus include:

1. Joseph Patrick "Joe" McManus (b. 1946), an American cartoonist, best known for his comic strip "Guyabbay" and the book series "The Dream of the Rood."

2. Matt McManus (b. 1973), an American director and screenwriter who has worked on numerous films and television shows.

3. Denis McManus (b. 1952), an Australian businessman, former CEO of Seven Network and a current board member at Qantas Airways.

4. Fiona McManus (b. 1967), a British actress who has appeared in popular television series such as "The Bill" and "EastEnders."

5. Thomas Francis McManus (1852–1930), an American sculptor, primarily known for his monuments of famous historical figures like Ulysses S. Grant and George Washington.

6. Brendan McManus (b. 1944), an Irish Roman Catholic Archbishop of Dublin, a prominent religious leader in Ireland.

These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields including art, entertainment, business, and religion.

Genealogical research on the last name Mcmanus

The McManus surname originates from Gaelic and Irish roots, where it translates to "son of the diminutive Manus," with Manus being a common pet form of the personal name John or Sean. Historically, the McManus clan hails from County Tyrone in Northern Ireland, although they are also found in considerable numbers in County Mayo and County Derry. The clan was part of the Irish Confederacy during the 17th-century Irish Rebellion but subsequently became predominantly Protestant after the Plantation of Ulster. McManus migrants traveled to Scotland, England, and North America, with a significant number settling in the United States beginning in the late 18th century. Famous individuals bearing the McManus surname include boxer Jimmy McLarnin and astronaut Thomas P. McMahon.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Mcmanus"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

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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 : 28 July 2025