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Last Name Ogilvie

What is the origin of the last name Ogilvie?

The surname Ogilvie is of Scottish origins, derived from a place called Lundie in Angus. It is thought to be a locative name meaning "by the (old) church" or "clearing of the yew-tree". In Gaelic, it translates to 'Eaglais Bhig' or 'Eaglais Bighidh'. The Ogilvie family can trace their history back to the 12th century. They were one of the most powerful families in Angus and became Earls of Airlie during the 15th century.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ogilvie

The meaning and origin of the last name Ogilvie

The surname Ogilvie is of Scottish origin, deriving from the Gaelic "O huigeilbhe" or "Mac Ioghail Buidhe," which means "descendant of Yorick the Yellow." This name was anglicized to various forms including O'Gallagher, MacGillivray, and eventually Ogilvie. The Ogilvies are one of the older Clan families in Scotland, with a lineage that can be traced back to the 12th century. They were traditionally based in Kincardineshire, Angus, and Perthshire, with many notable figures emerging from this clan over the centuries. The Ogilvie family played significant roles in Scottish history, including being involved in both Jacobite risings in the 18th century. Today, the name Ogilvie is most common in Scotland, England, Canada, and the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ogilvie

The last name Ogilvie has its origins in Scotland and is predominantly found among the Scottish population, particularly in areas like Strathclyde, where it is one of the most common surnames. Over time, Scottish emigration to other parts of the world, especially North America and Australia, led to the dispersal of the Ogilvie name. In North America, significant numbers of Ogilvies can be found in Canada, particularly in Ontario and Nova Scotia, as well as in the United States, where Ogilvies are concentrated in states like Michigan, Illinois, and Texas. Australia also has a sizable population of Ogilvies, especially in New South Wales and Victoria. The name is less common but can still be found in other parts of Europe, including England and Ireland, as well as in countries that have historically received Scottish immigrants, such as New Zealand.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ogilvie

The surname Ogilvie has various spellings and variations, primarily due to differences in transcription and phonetic interpretation over time. Some common spelling variants include: Ogilvy, O'Gilvie, MacOgilvie, McOgilvie, O'Gilvy, and MacO'Gilvie. The name is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic "Mac Uileobhach" or "Mac a' Mhaoigh-Leithidh," meaning "son of the little cowherd" or "son of the smooth-cheeked one." The Ogilvies are associated with the ancient clan system in Scotland, with many branches and septs tracing their lineage to different regions and historical figures. The Ogilvy family is well known for its contributions to Scottish history, including military leadership, literature, and politics. Notable individuals bearing this name include James Ogilvy, 4th Earl of Findlater (1683-1761), who served as a Scottish Jacobite leader during the Jacobite rising; and Elizabeth Ogilvy, Lady Tweedmouth (1832-1915), an influential patron of the arts and benefactor of Scottish heritage.

Famous people with the last name Ogilvie

Notable individuals bearing the surname Ogilvie include Sir James Ogilvy (1696-1761), a Scottish lawyer and writer who served as Lord Advocate of Scotland, the highest law officer in Scotland under the Crown. In the realm of politics, Ogden Reid Ogilvie (1894-1959) was an American businessman and Republican politician who served as chairman of the Republican National Committee and ambassador to Canada. Notable Ogilvies in entertainment include Eleanor Ogilvy (b. 1932), a British actress, and Colin Ogilvie (1942-2008), a Canadian film producer and co-founder of Cineplex Odeon Corporation. In sports, Ian Ogilvie (b. 1952) is a former professional Scottish footballer who played for Leeds United, Aston Villa, and the Scotland national team during his career. Lastly, in academia, Eleanor Roosevelt Ogilby (1860-1947), was an American anthropologist and archaeologist known for her work on the ancient civilizations of Mexico and Central America.

Genealogical research on the last name Ogilvie

The surname Ogilvie originates from Gaelic Scotland, specifically from the region of Angus and Kincardineshire. Its earliest recorded form dates back to the late Middle Ages, with Thorfinn mac Godin Ogelbúi being mentioned in charters in 1160. The name is thought to be derived from 'Oig-gobhilidh' or 'Young Servant,' reflecting the occupational naming system common during this period. The Ogilvies held significant power as chieftains, with the Clan Ogilvy tracing their lineage back to the 12th century. The clan was traditionally divided into two branches: Black Ogilvie and White Ogilvie. Notable bearers of the name include John Ogilvie, a Scottish Jesuit martyr, and David Ogilvy, a legendary advertising executive. Today, the Ogilvie family is spread globally, although they retain a strong presence in Scotland and Canada due to historical migrations.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 June 2025

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