MacKenzie

Meaning

The son of Kenneth, a name meaning 'handsome' or 'fair' in Gaelic.

Etymology

Formed from the Gaelic personal name 'Coinneach' (Kenneth) with the patronymic prefix 'Mac-' (son of), indicating descent from an ancestor named Kenneth. The surname became established in the Scottish Highlands and was borne by a powerful clan.

About the MacKenzie Surname

MacKenzie is a major Scottish Highland clan surname with a long history of power and influence in the northern Highlands. The clan played significant roles in Scottish politics and warfare throughout medieval and early modern periods.

Distribution

Concentrated in the Scottish Highlands, particularly in Ross and Cromarty, with populations throughout Scotland and significant diaspora in North America and Australia.