Last Name Mcnab

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mcnab

The meaning and origin of the last name Mcnab

The surname McNab is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name MacConndubh, meaning "son of the black dog." The name was likely given to an individual who may have had characteristics or traits associated with a black dog, or perhaps owned or bred black dogs. The McNab clan hails from the Scottish Highlands, specifically from the region of Argyllshire. The name has been recorded in various forms throughout history, with variations including MacNab, McNabb, and McNab. The McNab surname is considered to be a proud and noble Scottish clan with a long history of military service and loyalty to the crown. Today, the name is still found predominantly in Scotland and Canada, where many McNabs immigrated to during periods of Scottish migration.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mcnab

The last name McNab is of Scottish origin and is mainly found in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the United States. In the United Kingdom, the name is most commonly found in regions with historical ties to Scotland such as Scotland itself, as well as regions like Northern England and Northern Ireland. In Canada, the name is prevalent in provinces with significant Scottish populations such as Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Alberta. In Australia, the name is distributed across the country but is most concentrated in cities with strong Scottish immigrant communities such as Sydney and Melbourne. In the United States, the name is scattered throughout the country with notable concentrations in states like New York, California, and Texas where there are thriving Scottish American populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mcnab

The last name Mcnab can be spelled in various ways such as McNab, Macnab, MacNab, McNabb, McNabb, Macnabb, MacNabb, Macnabb, McNabbe, Macnabe, MacNabe, Macnabe, MacNabbie, Macnabbie, Mcnabbie, Macnabe, and McNabbie. These variations can be seen due to phonetic spelling, regional accents, or historical changes in the way the name was recorded. Despite the different spellings, all these variations typically originate from the same Scottish surname, which is of Gaelic origin, traceable to the ancient Clan Macnab. This surname, like many others, has evolved over time and can now be found worldwide with individuals using different spellings based on personal preference or family tradition.

Famous people with the last name Mcnab

One of the most famous individuals with the last name McNab is Andrew McNab, a Canadian author known for his powerful and thought-provoking novels such as "Fallen," "The Bodyguard" and "Free Agent." Another notable figure with the surname McNab is Andy McNab, a former member of the British Army's Special Air Service (SAS) who went on to become a best-selling author. McNab is also widely recognized for his autobiographical book "Bravo Two Zero" which recounts his experiences during the Gulf War. In addition, Winter McNabb, a former American football player who played in the National Football League (NFL) for the Washington Redskins, is another prominent individual with the last name McNabb. These McNabs have all made significant contributions to their respective fields and have left a lasting impact on their audiences.

Genealogical research on the last name Mcnab

The last name McNab is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name MacNab, meaning son of the abbot. The MacNab clan has a long and storied history in Scotland, mainly in the Perthshire region. The clan is believed to have descended from the Pictish people and have strong ties to the ancient kingdom of Dalriada. There are several variations of the name, including McNabb, MacNabb, and McNab, and the family is known for their bravery and loyalty. The McNabs were actively involved in various conflicts throughout Scottish history, including the Jacobite uprisings. Today, descendants of the McNab clan can be found all over the world, with many still residing in Scotland. Genealogical research on the McNab name can uncover a rich and fascinating history of this proud Scottish clan.