McKeel

McKeel is a surname of likely Scottish or Irish origin. It is considered a variant of names such as McHale or McHail, Anglicized forms of Gaelic surnames.

Possible Origins and Meaning:

• The "Mc" or "Mac" prefix signifies "son of." Therefore, McKeel likely indicates "son of Keel" or "son of Hail/Hale," depending on the specific Gaelic root being anglicized.

• The name "Keel" or "Hail/Hale" may have been derived from a personal name or a descriptive term. Some suggest connections to Old Norse elements.

Distribution:

The surname McKeel, while not exceptionally common, is found in regions where Scottish and Irish diaspora communities settled, particularly in the United States and Canada.

Variations:

Variants of the name may include McHale, McHail, Keel, Hale, and other similar Anglicized spellings. Genealogical research is often needed to determine the specific lineage and origin of a family bearing the McKeel surname.