How common is the McNeil surname?

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

Are there McNeil soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 911 soldiers with the McNeil surname appear in Civil War records.

McNeil

Q: What does the surname McNeil mean?

The surname McNeil means "Son of Neil, derived from the Irish 'Niall' meaning 'champion' or 'cloud.'". It is of Scottish Gaelic origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Son of Neil, derived from the Irish 'Niall' meaning 'champion' or 'cloud.'

Etymology

The 'Mc' prefix means 'son of' in Scottish Gaelic. Neil derives from the Irish personal name Niall, a common name among Gaelic-speaking populations.

About the McNeil Surname

A well-established Scottish patronymic surname with strong roots in the Hebrides and western Scotland. The name has been prominent in Scottish history and has spread internationally.

Distribution & Frequency

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

Rare Common

Common in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and widespread in English-speaking countries.

McNeil Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the McNeil Surname

John McNeil

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 14th century Scotland
Estimated Bearers: 35,000

War Records

911 soldiers with the McNeil surname found in Civil War records.

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