McCook

Patronymic-Occupational

Meaning

Son of Cook, derived from the occupational name for a cook.

Etymology

The 'Mc-' prefix derives from Scottish Gaelic 'mac' meaning 'son of'. 'Cook' is an occupational surname from Middle English 'cok' referring to someone who prepared food. The surname developed when occupational names became hereditary in Scottish communities.

About the McCook Surname

A Scottish surname combining patronymic and occupational elements. The name became established in America during the 19th century through notable military and entertainment figures.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 5,000 bearers in the United States #1,656 most common surname
Rare Common

Scotland and North America, particularly the United States.

McCook Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the McCook Surname