McNair

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Nair, possibly derived from 'an aire' meaning 'the heir' or from a personal name.

Etymology

The 'Mc' prefix indicates 'son of' in Scottish Gaelic. Nair may derive from Gaelic 'aire' (heir) or represent a shortened form of a longer personal name.

About the McNair Surname

A Scottish patronymic surname with roots in the Lowlands and Highlands. The name has maintained relatively consistent spelling and distribution patterns since medieval times.

Distribution

Found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with moderate presence in North America.

Notable Bearers

David McNair (Scottish politician), Unknown

People with the McNair Surname

William McNair