McConnell

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Connell, derived from the Gaelic personal name Conghail.

Etymology

The 'Mc-' prefix derives from Scottish Gaelic 'mac' meaning 'son of'. 'Connell' comes from Gaelic 'Conghail' (meaning 'strong wolf' or 'valiant'). The surname developed among Scottish clans and became widespread throughout Scotland and Ireland.

About the McConnell Surname

A prominent Scottish and Irish patronymic surname with significant historical documentation. The name has become one of the most common surnames in English-speaking countries.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 150,000 bearers in the United States #287 most common surname
Rare Common

Scotland, Ireland, and widespread in North America, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.

McConnell Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the McConnell Surname