Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Mcgowan

      Origin 
      Irish

      Meaning 
      Son of the Warrior

      Variations 
      Magowan, Mcgowen, Mcgown

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The surname McGowan is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Gobhainn, which translates to Son of the Warrior or Son of the Blacksmith. The prefix Mac signifies son of, indicating a patrilineal lineage. The connection to a warrior lineage typically signifies honor, valor, and strength, reflective of the namesake’s heritage.

      The McGowan surname can be traced back to the ancient Gaelic clans of Ireland, particularly being associated with the province of Ulster. In Irish history, the name has been prominent among the ruling classes and notable families. As with many surnames of its time, McGowan often represented a tribal identity, serving as a marker of territorial loyalty and family lineage. The name is recorded in various historic documents and annals, indicating its longstanding significance within Irish culture.

      In contemporary times, McGowan is a prevalent surname, particularly in Ireland, the United States, and other countries with Irish diaspora. It is still often associated with individuals who take pride in their Irish heritage, and many bearers of the name have made noteworthy contributions in various fields, including politics, sports, and the arts. The name continues to evoke its historical roots while being embraced in modern contexts, reflecting both legacy and individual identity.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Mcgowan.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Mcgowan.

      Mahala

      is the most common spouse name for Mcgowan.

      John

      is the most common child name for Mcgowan.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1836 is when there were the most people born with the first name Mcgowan.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.