Gilchrist (surname)

Gilchrist is a Scottish surname with several possible origins.

Origin:

• Scottish Gaelic: The name is derived from the Gaelic "Gille Chriosd," meaning "servant of Christ" or "follower of Christ." This type of surname, designating a devotee of a particular saint or figure, was common in early Scotland. The "Gille" element is prevalent in many Scottish names.

Distribution:

The surname Gilchrist is most common in Scotland, particularly in the western and central regions. It is also found in significant numbers in other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, due to emigration from Scotland.

Variations:

Variations of the surname include:

• Gilcrist
• Gilchriest
• Gillchriest
• Gilchrest
• McGilchrist (with the addition of the Gaelic prefix "Mac," meaning "son of")

Notable People with the Surname:

• Adam Gilchrist (born 1971), Australian cricketer.
• Connie Gilchrist (1901–1993), American actress.
• Ellen Gilchrist (1935-2024), American novelist, short story writer, and poet.
• John Gilchrist (1759–1841), Scottish linguist and orientalist.
• Sidney Gilchrist Thomas (1850–1885), British inventor.