How common is the Duncan surname?

There are approximately 130,000 people with the surname Duncan in the United States.

Are there Duncan soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,939 soldiers with the Duncan surname appear in Civil War records.

Duncan

Q: What does the surname Duncan mean?

The surname Duncan means "The son of Duncan, a name meaning 'brown warrior' or 'dark-skinned warrior' in Gaelic.". It is of Scottish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

The son of Duncan, a name meaning 'brown warrior' or 'dark-skinned warrior' in Gaelic.

Etymology

Formed from the Gaelic personal name 'Donnchadh' (Duncan) with the patronymic suffix '-son,' indicating descent from an ancestor named Duncan. The surname became established throughout Scotland as a patronymic designation.

About the Duncan Surname

Duncan is a Scottish patronymic surname derived from the Gaelic name Donnchadh, which has royal associations in Scottish history. The name reflects the importance of patronymic naming in Scottish genealogy and identity.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 130,000 bearers in the United States #333 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout Scotland with particular concentrations in the Highlands and central regions, and significant diaspora in North America.

Duncan Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

G.B. Duncan

General

George Duncan

R.D. Duncan

Thomas DUNCAN

Lt. Col.

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish
Classification: Patronymic
Estimated Bearers: 130,000

War Records

1,939 soldiers with the Duncan surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →