Surname McGarity - Meaning and Origin
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McGarity: What does the surname McGarity mean?
The last name McGarity is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mag Oireachtaigh." It is a patronymic name, which means it was originally based on the name of a father or patriarch. In this case, "Mag Oireachtaigh" translates to "son of Oireachtach." The meaning of "Oireachtach" is disputed among scholars, but it is believed to refer to a member of an assembly or someone involved in assemblies. Thus, the name may have been given to someone who was a representative, speaker, or figure of authority in meetings or assemblies. Over time, as surnames became hereditary, the "Mac" or "Mc" prefix meaning "son of" remained fixed, despite not necessarily representing a literal father-to-son relationship. Therefore, McGarity, in essence, signifies a lineage thought to be descended from or associated with a figure of authority in ancient assemblies.
Order DNA origin analysisMcGarity: Where does the name McGarity come from?
The last name McGarity is of Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Mac Gairbheith, which translates to "son of the rough peace." It is derived from the elements "garbh," meaning rough, and "síth," meaning peace. Roughly translated, the name connotes someone who maintains peace, even in harsh or difficult circumstances.
Many individuals with the surname McGarity emigrated from Ireland during the Great Famine in the mid-19th century, bringing the name to various parts of the world, particularly the United States, Canada, and Australia. Thus, although it remains distinctively Irish, the name can be found globally due largely to the historical diaspora. In terms of its present commonality, the surname McGarity can frequently be found in the United States, with a sizable number of McGarity families living in Georgia and Texas. Such wide geographic distribution makes it difficult to specify a single area where the name is particularly common today. Thus, while it shares its origins and history with Ireland, the McGarity name has clearly taken root in many corners of the world.
Variations of the surname McGarity
The surname McGarity originates from Scotland and Ireland, often associated with Clan MacGhille Fhaolain, an Irish clan which later migrated to Scotland. The name Mcgarity itself is an anglicization of the Gaelic "Mac Ghearailt", translating as "son of Gerald".
There are various spellings and variants for the surname McGarity due to this transition from Gaelic to English, different dialects, and misinterpretations over time. Some versions of the name include: McGaritty, McGarrett, MacGeraghty, MacGartie, McGeraghty, McGarty, Magarity, and McGerrity.
Other changes in spelling may occur due to families moving from Ireland to Scotland or America, where a further anglicization of the name would take place, leading to versions like Garrity or Garity. MacGarity, MacGearity or MacGharity are variations seen in Scotland.
The surname FitzGerald, which is widespread in Ireland, is another variant of the McGarity surname due to their similar root: "Gearailt".
Regardless of spelling, all these versions stand for the descendants of Gerald, showing the spread of this family across English-speaking countries and the changes the name has undergone.
Famous people with the name McGarity
- Peyton McGarity: a model and social media influencer who has been featured in campaigns for fashion brands such as Fendi, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton.
- Paul McGarity: Former Vice President of Operations and Technology for Antronix, a leading manufacturer of broadband communications equipment.
- Hunter McGarity: American actor and director, known for his roles in films such as The Accountant and The Wolf of Wall Street.
- Spencer McGarity: Award-winning film director and cinematographer, known for his feature films including The Maze Runner and Valley of the Boom.
- Megan McGarity: Professional snowboarder and two-time FIS Snowboard World Cup medalist.
- Edwin McGarity: 4-star general in the United States Air Force. He is best known for his service as the commander of the United States Pacific Command from 2002 to 2004.
- Cameron McGarity: Professional music producer, recording engineer, and songwriter with placements in major films, television shows, and albums.
- Seth McGarity: American Former Major-league Baseball pitcher who played with the Los Angeles Angels.
- Kody McGarity: Professional American BMX rider who has won many prestigious freestyle competitions.
- Robert McGarity: Former American football player who was a member of the Super Bowl XXVII winning Los Angeles Raiders.