How common is the MacLeish surname?

There are approximately 900 people with the surname MacLeish in the United States.

MacLeish

Q: What does the surname MacLeish mean?

The surname MacLeish means "Son of Leish, possibly derived from a personal name or descriptive term of uncertain origin.". It is of Scottish Gaelic origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Leish, possibly derived from a personal name or descriptive term of uncertain origin.

Etymology

Mac- means 'son of' in Scottish Gaelic. Leish may relate to Gaelic personal names or descriptive terms, though the exact etymology remains obscure.

About the MacLeish Surname

An obscure Scottish patronymic surname with uncertain origins and minimal historical records. The exact meaning and ancestral significance remain unclear.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 900 bearers in the United States #3,849 most common surname

Rare Common

Found primarily in Scotland with limited distribution in other regions.

Notable Bearers

People with the MacLeish Surname

Archibald MacLeish

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 16th century
Estimated Bearers: 900