Mckinnon is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Choinnich," which means "son of Coinneach." Coinneach was a personal name meaning "handsome" or "attractive." The surname Mckinnon has been anglicized over time, with variations including McKinney, Kinney, and other spellings.
The Mckinnon clan is believed to have originated in the Scottish Highlands, particularly in the area around Inverness. They were a sept of the Mackintosh clan, which was one of the most powerful clans in the region during the Middle Ages. The Mckinnons were known as a brave and loyal clan, with many members serving as warriors and chiefs.
Over time, the Mckinnon surname spread beyond Scotland, carried by emigrants who settled in other parts of Britain, Ireland, and eventually, North America. Today, Mckinnon is found around the world, with significant populations in countries like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, as well as in the United Kingdom.
Despite its Scottish origin, Mckinnon has also become a popular given name in some cultures, particularly in English-speaking countries. As a given name, Mckinnon does not have a specific meaning beyond its association with the surname. However, it is often associated with strength, loyalty, and pride, due to its historical ties to the Scottish clan system.
In summary, Mckinnon is a surname of Scottish origin that means "son of Coinneach." It has a rich history tied to the Scottish Highlands and the Mackintosh clan, but today, it can be found in diverse populations around the world. As a given name, Mckinnon carries no specific meaning beyond its association with the surname, but it is often associated with positive traits like strength and loyalty.
The name Mckinnon has been a relatively uncommon choice for newborns in the United States over the past few decades, with fewer than 10 births recorded in most years between 1995 and 2023.
However, there have been some fluctuations in its popularity. The name first appeared on the Social Security Administration's (SSA) list of top baby names in 1995, with just 9 babies given the name Mckinnon that year. In subsequent years, the number of births remained relatively low, with no more than 9 births recorded annually until 2018.
Interestingly, there was a slight increase in popularity between 2014 and 2016, with 7 births recorded each year during this period. This trend continued into 2018, when the number of babies named Mckinnon jumped to 9, the highest it has been since the mid-1990s.
In recent years, however, the popularity of the name has decreased once again. Between 2019 and 2023, there were fewer than 7 births recorded annually, with just 5 babies named Mckinnon in both 2022 and 2023.
Overall, while the name Mckinnon has not been particularly popular in the United States over the past few decades, its popularity has varied somewhat over time. It will be interesting to see whether this trend continues in the coming years.