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Last Name Taggart

What is the origin of the last name Taggart?

The last name Taggart is of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac an t-Sagairt," which means "son of the priest." The Taggart surname was historically associated with the ecclesiastical occupation, indicating that the original bearer of the name was the son of a priest. Over time, the surname Taggart spread beyond its original meaning and became a surname used by families with different backgrounds and occupations.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Taggart

The meaning and origin of the last name Taggart

The surname Taggart is of Gaelic origin, mainly found in Scotland and Ireland. It derives from the Old Gaelic name Mac an t-Sagairt, which translates to "son of the priest." The word "sagart" means "priest" in both Irish and Scottish Gaelic. The name suggests that the original bearer of the surname came from a family involved in religious work or possibly had close ties to a priestly figure in their community. Over time, the surname Mac an t-Sagairt likely underwent anglicization to Taggart, a variant that is now more commonly found. The name may have also been changed due to the influence of English-speaking authorities who sought to standardize and anglicize Gaelic names during various periods of Scottish and Irish history. Today, individuals with the surname Taggart can be found throughout the English-speaking world, particularly in areas with a historical link to Scottish or Irish immigration.

Geographical distribution of the last name Taggart

The Taggart surname is mainly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, it is most prevalent in the western region, particularly in the historic counties of Ayrshire and Lanarkshire. Within these areas, some specific towns and cities where Taggarts have been commonly recorded include Glasgow, Kilmarnock, and East Kilbride. The name also has a significant presence in Northern Ireland, particularly in the Ulster region. Counties like Antrim, Down, and Londonderry have historically been home to many individuals with the Taggart last name. Additionally, Taggarts can be found in other parts of the United Kingdom and occasionally in other English-speaking countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. However, the concentration of the Taggart surname remains highest in its ancestral homelands of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Variants and spellings of the last name Taggart

The last name Taggart has several variations and spellings across different regions and time periods. One common variation is "Teggart," which is derived from the Irish "Mac Théagairt," meaning son of the carpenter. Another variation is "MacTaggart," more commonly found in Scotland, where "Mac" denotes "son of" in Gaelic. Similarly, "Taggert" is a variant spelling of the name, possibly influenced by regional accents or dialects. In addition to these variations, there may also be alternate spellings like "Taggertt" or "Taggertte," which might have emerged through errors in record-keeping or transcription. Over time, surnames like Taggart can evolve and change due to the influence of different cultures, migrations, or personal preferences. Furthermore, certain individuals or families may choose to modify the spelling of their last name for various reasons, such as simplification or distinguishing themselves from others with the same name.

Famous people with the last name Taggart

Taggart, a surname of Scottish origin, has been associated with several notable individuals across different fields throughout history. One prominent figure bearing this name is Sir John Taggart, a renowned British physicist who made significant contributions to the field of quantum mechanics. His groundbreaking research enhanced our understanding of the properties and behavior of matter at the atomic and subatomic levels. In the world of sports, Sandy Taggart stands out as a legendary Scottish footballer. His exceptional skills as a striker earned him recognition and adulation, and he represented both Celtic F.C. and the Scottish national team with distinction during the 1960s. Additionally, Taggart has seen its mark in the world of literature. Scottish author Shari Low, known for her captivating romantic novels, has captivated readers worldwide with her heartfelt and gripping stories. These talented individuals have left an enduring legacy, showcasing the diverse accomplishments of those bearing the Taggart surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Taggart

The genealogical research on the last name Taggart traces back to its origins in Ireland. The surname Taggart is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac an t-Sagairt" meaning "son of the priest." The earliest records indicate that the Taggart family lived in County Donegal, located in the northern part of Ireland. Over time, members of the Taggart clan migrated to other parts of Ireland, as well as to the United Kingdom, North America, Australia, and other countries around the world. The Taggart family history reveals a diverse range of occupations, including farmers, tradesmen, priests, and professionals. The name has been spelled differently over the centuries, with variations such as Tagart, Taggert, and Tegart. Genealogical records show that the Taggart surname has spread widely, and countless individuals today proudly carry the name. Through dedicated research and collaboration with relatives, it is possible to uncover more specific information about individual branches and uncover fascinating stories from the Taggart family's past.

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 April 2025

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