Surname McMillam - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'M'
McMillam: What does the surname McMillam mean?
The surname McMillam is of Scottish origin and is a variant of McMillan. The name McMillan is derived from the Gaelic MacMhaolain, which means "son of the bald or tonsured one." In a religious context, the bald or tonsured one may refer to a devotee who has undergone this process as a ritual of devotion or humility. The prefix "Mac" or "Mc" is a common prefix in Scottish and Irish surnames meaning "son of". Thus, McMillam, like McMillan, is understood to mean "son of the bald one." The exact meaning can however vary with different theories about its origin and the context in which it was originated. It is important to note that spellings of surnames have often changed over time and McMillam is one such example.
Order DNA origin analysisMcMillam: Where does the name McMillam come from?
The surname McMillam is of Scottish origin. It is derived from a combination of the Gaelic "Mac," meaning "son of," and "Maoláin," a patronymic or diminutive form of a personal name, often indicating affection or endearment. Over the time, the surname evolved into various forms such as McMillian, McMullan, and McMillan. In English, the name can be translated loosely to "son of the bald or shaven-headed one," possibly referring originally to a religious devotee or a monk.
Today, the surname is common in countries where there has been significant Scottish immigration. This includes the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Despite being spread out across the countries, Scotland and Northern Ireland continue to have a high concentration of individuals with the McMillam surname. Despite its origin, the spelling “McMillam” is less common than “McMillan,” but it retains the same root and meaning.
Variations of the surname McMillam
The surname McMillam is no doubt of Scottish origin with a rich history and various spellings across different periods and geographical locations. Some of these variations might include McMillan, MacMillan, MacMullan, MacMullen, McMullan, McMullen, McMillen, McMillin, McMillon, and McMillum.
All these different spellings have one common root, the Gaelic "MacMhaolain" which utilizes the prefix "mac" meaning son, and "maolain" which means shaven-head. This was typically a reference to a religious man or devotee who shaven their hair as a symbol of dedication.
It's important to denote that the variations in spelling have evolved over time due to a variety of factors such as regional dialects, the way an official documented the name, or a voluntary change of spelling by someone in the family. It's also worth noting that the term Mc or Mac could sometimes be interchangeable since both prefixes mean "son of".
The surname McMillam also has closely related or derivative surnames which include Millan and Millen. The 'Mc' or 'Mac' prefix simply may be dropped, especially in times when it was more socially or economically advantageous to appear less ethnically Gaelic.
Famous people with the name McMillam
- Grant McMillan: American pastry chef, video game commentator, and Twitch and YouTube Streamer.
- Clay McMillan: an American YouTube creator and Twitch streamer who plays video games.
- Carlton McMillan: former NFL defensive lineman.
- Tevin McMillan: former NFL cornerback.
- Kevin McMillan: American actor of stage, television, and film.
- Duncan McMillan: American actor and model.
- George McMillan: former NFL defensive tackle.
- John McMillan: former NFL fullback.
- Laura McMillan: Canadian Olympic swimmer.
- Taylor McMillan: indie folk singer-songwriter.
- Bruce McMillan: American photographer.
- John McMillan: former NFL running back.
- Will McMillan: Television actor best known for his role in the popular show "Wings".
- Robert McMillan: former NFL linebacker.
- Celeste McMillan: American jazz singer.
- J.C. McMillan: former NFL defensive end.
- Da’Quann McMillan: former NFL offensive guard.
- Jessica McMillan: Australian rock musician.
- Emily McMillan: professional lacrosse player.
- Jonathan McMillan: British filmmaker and photographer.