Surname McClure - Meaning and Origin

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Unraveling our ancestry can be an intriguing journey through time and history, especially with advancements in science and technology like DNA testing. My iGENEA DNA test offered an in-depth look into the lineage of the surname McClure, disclosing interesting connections with Gaelic and Nordic cultures while tracing extraordinary migrations and cultural interactions.

F. McClure

McClure: What does the surname McClure mean?

The last name McClure is of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic "MacGilleUidhir," which means "son of the pale youth" or "son of the servant of Saint Odhar." Saint Odhar was a hermit saint from Ireland. The surname can be found in various forms such as McLure, McLurg, and McLurkin, among others. However, it is most frequently found in Ulster and Scotland. Like many surnames, McClure originally served as a form of identification – in this case, likely identifying families who were followers or descendants of a pale youth. Over the centuries, it has become a familial name passed down through generations.

McClure: Where does the name McClure come from?

The surname McClure originates from Scotland, specifically from the ancient clan MacGilleUidhir, which roughly translates to "son of the pale-faced lad." The name has seen several variations in spelling over centuries, from McLure and MacLure to its common modern form, McClure. It emerged from the region of Galloway located in Southwestern Scotland, from where it spread across Scotland, Ireland and England.

Today, the surname remains common in Scotland, particularly in the regions surrounding Glasgow. However, due to historical migrations, especially during the Highland Clearances in the 18th and 19th centuries, the name is now prevalent in various parts of the world. It is notably widespread in English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In the United States, it is particularly common in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas due to the settlement patterns of Scottish and Irish immigrants in these areas. The McClure name, while still carrying its Scottish roots, has achieved a global presence.

Variations of the surname McClure

The surname McClure originates from Scotland, specifically from the Gaelic name Mac Gille Uidhir. It means "son of the pale-colored lad." This surname may also have emerged from the old Irish surname Mac Giolla Uír, meaning "son of the servant of Saint Odhran."

Considering different spellings over time and migration, the surname McClure may have multiple variants including MacClure, McCluer, MacLure, McLure, McLeur, MacGlure, and MacLouer among others.

The surname may also have alternative spellings due to local dialects and pronunciation. Some of these variations may include McLeir, McLeire, McLier, McLiere, McLoar, McLoer, McLore, and MacLoar.

Please note that despite having similar spellings or pronunciation, not all variants necessarily have the same origin or meaning.

Moreover, there are also many McClures found in Northern Ireland, mainly in County Antrim, who are of Scottish origin. Some McClures may be descendants of English families with the surname McClure that settled in Ireland.

Lastly, it's not uncommon for surnames to be completely altered upon immigration, therefore, tracing the exact variations might not always be feasible.

Famous people with the name McClure

• Richard McClure: Military man serving as Sergeant Major in U.S. Army and later as a Senior Advisor to the U.S. Department of State
• Maggie Ann McClure: Singer and songwriter best known for her 2010 song “Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do”
• John McClure: American computer scientist who developed software for the education sector
• Jackie McClure: American activist who, in 2014, co-founded the We Stand United coalition to combat inequality
• William D. McClure: American psychologist who served as president of the American Psychological Association (APA) from 1967 to 1968
• David A. McClure: U.S. official involved in the management of foreign aid, as well as international finance and development
• Brendon McClure: American actor best known for his roles in films such as The Devil’s Rejects and TV shows such as Southland
• Ann McClure: English-born, Australian author and journalist best known for her Pulitzer Prize-winning articles about her experience during World War II
• Eric McClure: American professional race car driver who competed in the NASCAR Xfinity Series
• Joe McClure: Politician who served as lieutenant governor of Mississippi from 1964 to 1968

Other surnames

McCluerMcClungMcClurdMcClurgMcClurgeMcCluron