Origin and Meaning of Mcdonald

Meaning & Origin

Son of Donald

Origin: Scottish - Derived from the Gaelic surname 'Mac Dhòmhnaill', where 'Mac' means 'son' and 'Dhòmhnaill' refers to the name Donald, which means 'world ruler'.

Interesting Facts

  • Mcdonald is a surname that has been borne by several notable figures in history, particularly in Scotland and among Scottish descendants globally.
  • The name 'Donald' itself is quite popular in Scotland, and the surname Mcdonald reflects the patronymic naming convention commonly used in Gaelic culture.
  • Notable bearers of the surname include musician and composer John McDonald, and various politicians and athletes from Scottish ancestry.
  • While Mcdonald is primarily a surname, it has gained popularity as a first name in contemporary naming trends, particularly in North America.
  • Mcdonald is often associated with the fast-food chain McDonald's, which has contributed to its global recognition.