McNeil is an uncommon yet distinctive given name of Scottish origin. Derived from the Gaelic surname Mac Aonghais, which means "son of Angus," McNeil was historically used to denote the sons and descendants of Angus. Over time, it has evolved into a first name in its own right, particularly in Scotland and among those of Scottish descent worldwide.
The name McNeil is pronounced as "mick-nile" or "mic-kneel." It carries a strong, resonant sound that reflects its rugged Scottish roots. The name has gained popularity outside Scotland due to notable figures bearing the name, such as McNeil Robinson, an American football player, and McNeil Cavalo, a Canadian actor.
In terms of popular culture, McNeil appears in various forms across literature, film, and television. One notable example is Neil McNeil, a character from the British television series "Midsomer Murders." Additionally, the name has been used as a title for works such as "McNeil, My Brother" by Kenji Siratori.
Overall, McNeil is an unusual yet striking first name that bears the weight of its Scottish heritage. It offers parents seeking a distinctive name for their child a unique option with a rich history and a powerful sound.
"Between 1914 and 1993, the name McNeil was given to a total of 53 babies, with notable spikes in popularity during the late 1940s and early 1950s."