Summary

The surname Mcnair is of Scottish origin and is derived from the personal name Malin, which means 'little warrior'. It is believed to have originated in the Scottish Highlands and has a rich history with noble clans. The Mcnair family name is often associated with strength and courage.
There are
16595
Mcnairs in the USA
Mcnair is the
2191st
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Mcnair

RonMcNair

Ron McNair was an African-American physicist and NASA astronaut who tragically died in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986.

SteveMcNair

Steve McNair was a professional American football player who played quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens.

StirlingMacnair

Stirling Macnair was a Scottish badminton player who won numerous international championships in the 1950s and 1960s.

BobbyMcNair

Bobby McNair is a prominent businessman and philanthropist, known for his involvement in the energy industry and for his contributions to education and community development.

SandraMcNair

Sandra McNair is an American author and literary critic, known for her works exploring themes of race, identity, and social justice.

LeroyMcNair

Leroy McNair was a civil rights activist and community leader in the United States, advocating for equal rights and opportunities for African Americans.

KarenMcNair

Karen McNair is a British artist known for her unique sculptures and installations that explore the intersection of technology and the natural world.

ConnorMcNair

Connor McNair is a professional golfer from Australia, known for his impressive swing and consistent performance on the international golfing circuit.

RuthMcNair

Ruth McNair was a pioneering medical doctor in Australia, specializing in women's health and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in healthcare.

GavinMcNair

Gavin McNair is a Scottish chef and restaurateur, known for his innovative and creative approach to cuisine, blending traditional Scottish flavors with international influences.

Mcnair Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'McNair' is of Scottish origin, derived from the personal name 'MacNàbhèir' which means 'son of the heir'. It is a variant of the name 'MacNab' and is associated with the Clan Macnair in Scotland.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'McNair' is predominantly found in Scotland and to a lesser extent in other English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia with smaller populations of individuals with this surname.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'McNair' include 'MacNair', 'McNairn', 'McNarra', 'McNayr', 'McNyar', 'McNayre', 'Macnair', 'MacNayr', 'MaCnair', and 'McNear'.
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'McNair' have migrated and immigrated to various countries, particularly during periods of Scottish migration and colonization. The diaspora of the Clan Macnair and Scottish immigrants have contributed to the distribution of the name globally.