Macguire is a unique and distinctive Irish surname that has a rich history and fascinating origins. The name is derived from the Gaelic word "MagUidhir," which translates to "son of Udhar" or "hound of Udhar." Udhar was a chieftain who lived in Ireland during the Middle Ages, and his descendants took his name as their own surname.
The earliest records of the Macguire family can be traced back to the 12th century in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. The clan was known for their bravery and skill in battle, and they played a significant role in Irish history. They were allies of the O'Neill clan, one of the most powerful families in medieval Ireland.
Over time, the Macguire clan spread throughout Ireland and Scotland, and variations of the name can be found in both countries today. Some of these variations include McGuire, Maguire, Magwire, and McWreath.
The Macguire coat of arms features a red lion rampant on a golden background, symbolizing strength and courage. The motto of the clan is "Virtutis Gloria Merces," which means "Glory is the reward of virtue."
Today, Macguire is still considered a rare but beloved Irish surname, carried by people all over the world who are proud of their heritage and history. Whether you're a Macguire descendant or simply appreciate unique names with rich backgrounds, this fascinating surname is sure to capture your imagination.
The name Macguire has seen a varied trend in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. In 1998, there were 5 newborns named Macguire. The number of babies given this name increased significantly to 13 in the year 2000, indicating a brief spike in popularity during that time.
However, the following years showed a decline in the usage of the name Macguire. In 2001, there were only 9 newborns named Macguire, followed by 5 in 2002 and 6 in both 2003 and 2004. The trend continued to fluctuate, with 7 births each in 2005 and 2006, and another dip to 6 births in 2007.
It appears that the name Macguire experienced a slight resurgence in popularity between 2010 and 2014, as there were 7 babies named Macguire each year during this period. Overall, from 1998 to 2014, there have been a total of 71 newborns named Macguire in the United States.
Despite its ups and downs in popularity over the years, the name Macguire has maintained a consistent presence among baby names in the United States, with an average of approximately 3.5 births per year between 1998 and 2014.