McNeill (surname)

McNeill is a surname of Scottish and Irish origin. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Mac Néill, meaning "son of Niall." Niall is an ancient Gaelic personal name of uncertain etymology, possibly related to the words "niadh" (champion) or "neo" (new).

The McNeills are a prominent clan in both Scotland and Ireland. In Scotland, they are associated with the Isle of Barra and Gigha, with two distinct branches stemming from these locations. The Barra McNeills were historically known as seafarers and warriors, while the Gigha McNeills were known for their lands and strategic importance.

In Ireland, the McNeills are primarily associated with County Antrim. There, they were a branch of the Scottish Clan MacNeill.

The surname has variations in spelling, including McNeil, McNeal, McNeile, and MacNeill.

Notable people with the surname McNeill include:

• William H. McNeill: A renowned historian known for his book The Rise of the West.
• Hector McNeill: A Scottish politician.
• James McNeill Whistler: An American artist. (Whistler's father used the spelling McNeill)
• Claudia McNeill: An American actress.