McNeil is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic Mac Néill, which means "son of Neil". The name Neil itself comes from the Irish and Scottish name Niall, which means "champion" or "cloud".
The McNeil clan originated in Argyllshire, Scotland, where they were one of the most powerful families. They were known as fierce warriors and loyal supporters of the Highland cause. The clan's history dates back to the 13th century when they supported the Bruce family against the English.
The McNeils are also associated with the Highlands Clearances in the 18th and 19th centuries, during which many Scottish families were forcibly removed from their lands by English landlords. The McNeils resisted these efforts and fought to preserve their heritage and way of life.
Today, the name McNeil is still carried on by people around the world who are proud of their Scottish ancestry and heritage. It remains a popular choice for parents looking for a strong, unique name with a rich history behind it.
McNeil is a unique and distinct name that has been given to babies born in the United States over several decades, with a total of 53 births recorded since 1914. While it may not be one of the most popular names, its presence on the birth records for nearly a century reflects a certain degree of consistency and uniqueness.
Looking at the data, we can see that McNeil's popularity has remained relatively steady over time, with a range of between five to six births per year during the periods when it was given. The name reached its peak in terms of popularity between 1949 and 1950, with six births recorded each year during this time.
It is interesting to note that there were no recorded births of McNeil between the years 1966 and 1986, indicating a gap in usage for this name. However, it reappeared on the birth records in 1987 with five births, showing that even after nearly two decades, parents continued to choose this distinctive name for their children.
Overall, while McNeil may not be a name that is widely used today, its consistent presence on birth records over nearly a century demonstrates its enduring appeal among parents who seek a unique and memorable name for their child.