What does the surname McKinnon mean?

The surname McKinnon means "Son of Finnan or descendant of the fair-haired one.". It is of Scottish origin.

How common is the McKinnon surname?

There are approximately 35,000 people with the surname McKinnon in the United States.

Are there McKinnon soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 318 soldiers with the McKinnon surname appear in Civil War records.

McKinnon

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Finnan or descendant of the fair-haired one.

Etymology

Derived from Gaelic Mac Fhionnáin, where Fionnán is a diminutive of fionn meaning 'fair' or 'white.' The surname originated in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, particularly associated with Clan MacKinnon.

About the McKinnon Surname

A prominent Highland Scottish surname associated with Clan MacKinnon of Skye. The name has maintained strong presence in Scotland and gained significant distribution through colonial emigration.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 35,000 bearers in the United States #652 most common surname

Rare Common

Scotland, Canada, United States, and Australia.

McKinnon Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the McKinnon Surname

Marjorie McKinnon

Eastern Airline Hostess

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 13th century
Estimated Bearers: 35,000

War Records

318 soldiers with the McKinnon surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →