Surname Milligin - Meaning and Origin

Milligin: What does the surname Milligin mean?

The surname Milligin is believed to have Scottish and Irish origins. However, it is important to note that the name's meaning is not precisely known due to the variations and modifications over centuries. Some experts suggest that Milligin might be derived from the Gaelic term "Maolagan", which translates to "the little bald or shaven-headed one." This could refer to someone who had taken religious vows, as it was common for monks to shave their heads as a sign of their devotion. It's also plausible that Milligin could be a derivative of the similar-sounding surname Mulligan, which in some interpretations is thought to mean "descendant of the miller." But without specific genealogical research, it's not fully certain. As with all surnames, family history and context could greatly influence meanings.

Milligin: Where does the name Milligin come from?

Milligin is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Celtic personal name Melgin. It was first recorded in Scotland around the 12th century. Variants of the name include Milligan, Millican, Milliken, and Millikin. Traditionally, Scottish people used the patronymic system of name-making, originally having no surnames, instead taking their father's first name as their 'second' name.

Today, the name is most common in English-speaking countries, especially the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Within these regions, it's particularly prevalent in areas with a significant population of Scottish or Irish descent. Scotland and Northern Ireland also have a fair number of Milligins due to their historical and cultural ties with the name.

Despite its historical Scottish roots, it's important to note that "common" is a relative term. The surname Milligin is not widely spread and is considered quite uncommon in comparison to other surnames even within regions it is typically found. The further you get from its origin point and areas of Scottish or Irish migration, the less common it's likely to be.

Variations of the surname Milligin

The surname Milligin is of Irish origin, linked to the Gaelic surname "O Maolagain". Variants and similar surnames include Mulligan, Mulliken, Mellican, Millican, Milligan, Melligan, Miligan, Meligan, Milliken, Millikin, Muligan, Mullican, and many more. The name may often have different spellings due to phonetic translations from Gaelic to English and the unique iterations of the surname in various records and documents over time.

The name is derived from a patronymic system where 'O' means “descendant of”, and "Maolagain" is a diminutive of "maol", meaning bald or tonsured one, often referring to a religious devotee or disciple. Over time, variations have evolved with different spellings as families emigrated, such as to North America, where records clerks often spelled the name phonetically.

However, it's important to note that while these surnames may have similar spellings and origins, they may not all refer to the same family line, as different families may have adopted or been given similar surnames independently due to similar professions, characteristics, or simply by coincidence. More detailed genealogical research would be necessary to trace specific family lineage.

Famous people with the name Milligin

• Bill Milligan: former American actor and businessman, best known for his role in the TV series Welcome Back, Kotter.
• Elinor Milligan: American figure skater and national champion, five-time Olympian.
• David Milligan: British historian and professor, best known for his work on the British Raj.
• William Milligan: Scottish theologian, known for his seven-volume The Expositor's Greek New Testament.
• Murray Milligan: American-born Canadian songwriter, guitarist, and singer, best known for his collaborations with Gordon Lightfoot.
• Norman Milligan: Canadian politician and former mayor of St. John's, Newfoundland.
• Christopher Milligan: New Zealand rugby union player, known for his successful All Blacks career.
• Harry Milligan: English former footballer, played for Blackburn Rovers and Bournemouth.
• Daniel Milligan: American politician and former mayor of Forrest City, Arkansas.
• Alan Milligan: American professional basketball player, played for several teams in the NBA.

Other surnames

MilliganMilligen