McGovern

Meaning

Descendant of Gobhairn, a personal name possibly meaning 'rough' or 'coarse'.

Etymology

The 'Mc' prefix means 'son of' in Irish. 'Govern' derives from the Irish personal name Gobhairn, which may relate to 'gobha' (smith) or 'garbh' (rough) in Gaelic. The surname is associated with Ulster and Connacht regions.

About the McGovern Surname

A moderately common Irish and Scottish patronymic surname with medieval roots. The name has substantial presence in both the British Isles and the diaspora.

Distribution

Found throughout Ireland and Scotland, with significant populations in North America, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.

Notable Bearers

George McGovern (U.S. Senator and presidential candidate), James McGovern (U.S. Congressman), Ewan McGovern (Scottish footballer)

People with the McGovern Surname