TheNameDBMacalester
PatronymicMeaning
Son of Alister, a Gaelic form of Alexander.
Etymology
The prefix 'Mac-' denotes 'son of' in Scottish Gaelic. Alister is a Gaelic variant of Alexander, ultimately derived from Greek 'alexandros' meaning 'defender of men.'
About the Macalester Surname
A Scottish patronymic surname indicating descent from someone named Alister. The name is associated with Scottish Highland clans and has historical roots in Argyll.
Distribution
Primarily Scotland with diaspora in North America.
Notable Bearers
James H. Macalester (19th-century merchant and philanthropist)