Macgregor Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Macgregor
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MACGREGOR. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Macgregor
Gender
Male
Origin
Scottish
Lucky Number
6
Meaning of the Name
Macgregor is a traditional Scottish name meaning 'son of a shepherd.' It reflects Highland heritage and carries strong associations with Scottish clan history and cultural identity.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Venus
Positive Nature
Harmonious, responsible, caring, and artistic.
Negative Traits
Overly idealistic, superficial, possessive, or jealous.
Lucky Colours
Pink, turquoise.
Lucky Days
Friday.
Lucky Stones
Diamond, turquoise.
Harmony Numbers
2, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Artists, musicians, teachers, healthcare workers.
What People Like About You
Warmth, nurturing nature, artistic flair.
Famous People Named Macgregor
Rob Roy MacGregor
Outlaw and Folk Hero
Became legendary Scottish folk hero through cattle raiding and resistance against landlords
Ewan MacGregor
Actor
Internationally acclaimed actor known for diverse roles across independent and blockbuster films
Sir William MacGregor
Colonial Administrator
Served as Governor of Newfoundland, Queensland, and other British colonies while promoting public health
John MacGregor
Explorer and Author
Pioneered recreational canoeing and documented extensive travels across multiple continents
Name Variations & International Equivalents
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Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's cultural importance was further cemented by the legendary figure of Rob Roy MacGregor (1671-1734), whose life as a cattleman, outlaw, and folk hero captured the Scottish imagination. His story, romanticized by Sir Walter Scott and later filmmakers, transformed the MacGregor name into a symbol of Scottish independence and resistance to authority. Today, the name continues to represent Highland heritage, clan loyalty, and the enduring spirit of Scottish culture, maintaining its powerful associations despite—or perhaps because of—its troubled history.
Extended Personality Analysis
The MacGregor name carries associations with strong, independent personalities marked by resilience and leadership qualities. Historically and culturally, individuals with this name are often perceived as possessing a fierce determination and loyalty to their principles—traits forged through the clan's centuries of persecution. There's an inherent romantic individualism combined with practical wisdom, creating personalities that balance tradition with progressive thinking. The shepherd origins of the name suggest nurturing, protective qualities that translate to modern contexts as guidance and community leadership.
These individuals are typically seen as resourceful problem-solvers who maintain their integrity under pressure. The name evokes characteristics of strength, reliability, and a certain rebellious spirit—people who chart their own course while remaining connected to their roots. There's often an element of romantic adventure and courage, combined with deep family loyalty and respect for heritage. This creates a personality profile that values both independence and community, individual achievement and collective wellbeing—a balance that reflects the complex history and symbolic weight of the MacGregor name throughout Scottish culture.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, MacGregor maintains a distinctive presence as both a surname and increasingly as a first name, particularly within Scottish communities and among those celebrating Scottish heritage worldwide. While not ranking among the most popular given names, it has seen steady usage, especially in Scotland, Canada, Australia, and the United States where Scottish diaspora communities are strong. The name benefits from the broader trend of using surnames as first names and the revival of traditional Scottish names. Actor Ewan MacGregor's international fame has contributed significantly to the name's modern recognition and positive associations, making it more familiar to global audiences. Current usage patterns show it as a choice that conveys cultural pride, strength, and distinction without being overly common, positioning it as an elegant bridge between traditional Scottish identity and contemporary naming preferences.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, the MacGregor name represents the enduring spirit of Scottish resilience and cultural identity. It embodies the metaphorical journey from persecution to preservation, making it a powerful symbol of survival and heritage maintenance. The name carries connotations of guidance and protection—drawing from its literal meaning as 'son of a shepherd'—which translates metaphorically to leadership, wisdom, and caretaking roles within communities. It also symbolizes the wild, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the independent spirit associated with Highland culture. The historical context of the name's proscription adds layers of meaning related to identity preservation under pressure and the triumph of cultural continuity over attempted erasure. This rich symbolic tapestry makes MacGregor not just a name but a narrative of Scottish history, representing both the challenges faced by Highland clans and their lasting legacy in Scottish and global consciousness.