McKillop (surname)

The surname McKillop is of Scottish and Irish origin. It is generally considered an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Giolla Comaill.

Origin and Meaning:

• Mac Giolla Comaill (Gaelic): This translates to "son of the devotee of Saint Columba" or "son of the follower of Saint Columba". Giolla means "devotee" or "follower," and Comaill is the genitive form of Colum Cille (Saint Columba). Saint Columba was a prominent Irish abbot and missionary credited with spreading Christianity in Scotland in the 6th century.

Distribution and History:

The McKillop surname is primarily found in Scotland and Ireland, particularly in the Highlands of Scotland and in County Antrim in Northern Ireland. Over time, variations in spelling have emerged. Scottish McKillops are often associated with Clan MacLean and the Isle of Mull. Irish McKillops are sometimes associated with Clan McDonnell, particularly in the Glens of Antrim. Emigration from Scotland and Ireland has led to the surname being found in other parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Variations:

Common variations of the surname include:

• Killop
• Killip
• MacKillop
• Gillop
• Gillip

Notable People:

• Mary MacKillop (Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop): An Australian Roman Catholic religious sister who has been canonized as a saint. She is the first Australian saint.

See also:

• Scottish surnames
• Irish surnames
• Clan MacLean
• Saint Columba