McCreary

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Creary, a personal name possibly derived from Gaelic elements.

Etymology

The 'Mc-' prefix indicates 'son of' in Scottish Gaelic. 'Creary' may derive from Gaelic 'creachadh' (plundering) or represent a personal name variant. The surname developed in Scottish territories during the medieval period.

About the McCreary Surname

A Scottish patronymic surname with limited historical documentation. The name appears in both Scottish and American records with moderate frequency.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 2,500 bearers in the United States #2,566 most common surname
Rare Common

Scotland and North America, with notable presence in the United States.

McCreary Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the McCreary Surname