What does the surname Maclean mean?

The surname Maclean means "Son of Leod or Leann, a Norse personal name.". It is of Scottish Gaelic origin.

How common is the Maclean surname?

There are approximately 35,000 people with the surname Maclean in the United States.

Are there Maclean soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 14 soldiers with the Maclean surname appear in Civil War records.

Maclean

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Leod or Leann, a Norse personal name.

Etymology

The 'Mac-' prefix denotes 'son of' in Scottish Gaelic, with Leod being a Norse name meaning 'heir.' The surname is associated with a prominent Scottish clan from the Isle of Mull.

About the Maclean Surname

A prominent Scottish clan surname with roots in the Hebrides, particularly the Isle of Mull. The name has significant historical importance in Scottish Highland genealogy.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 35,000 bearers in the United States #652 most common surname

Rare Common

Scotland, particularly the Hebrides and Highlands, with significant diaspora in North America and Australia.

Maclean Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Maclean Surname

W.F. Maclean

Dean

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 13th century Scotland
Estimated Bearers: 35,000

War Records

14 soldiers with the Maclean surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →