Scottish Last Names

Traditionally pronounced "ming-iz" and thus the relationship to the jazzy Mingus, Menzies is an old Scottish surname related to the more common Manners.

Shows some promise via its connection to the growing interest in Ewan.

The geographical spelling of the Scottish surname Sterling, now starting to be heard for girls, too.

Despite its appearance, McGill is not related to any of the Gil- names, including Gilbert, Gilford, and Gilson. The "gill" piece is derived from the Gaelic word gall, meaning "foreigner." Yet, it could still be used to honor a Gil in your life.

The famous Battle of the Boyne, in Ireland, vanquished the Catholic king.

Hunter is gaining favor among girls—for those in search of something less common, we recommend Hutton.

Woodford is a vintage surname name that rejoined the charts in 2022 thanks to the recent trend of woodsy names for boys. You can take your pick of two stylish nicknames: Ford or Woods.

Barr fits alongside other short and snappy surname-names like Fyfe, Blair and Dawe. They're off the beaten track but instantly familiar.

This highly recognizable surname means "son of Artan," an Irish derivative of the name Art. It's most closely tied to Beatle Paul McCartney — we'd be willing to bet that some of the parents who give this name to their children each year are fans.

This artistic surname name derives from a diminutive of Laurence/Lawrence, and was famously borne by the English painter LS Lowry.

A surname associated these days with Breaking Bad actor Bryan Cranston.