MacEntee

MacEntee is a surname of Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic O' an Ainnite, meaning "descendant of Ainnite". The personal name Ainnite itself is thought to be derived from a word meaning "little deer" or "fawn".

Families bearing the MacEntee surname have historically been associated with various regions in Ireland, particularly in Ulster. Like many Irish surnames, it has spread throughout the world due to emigration, with significant populations found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Notable individuals with the surname MacEntee include Patrick MacEntee, an Irish politician, and various figures in sports, arts, and academia. The name's distribution and historical prevalence offer insights into Irish migration patterns and genealogical research. While specific historical records detailing the earliest bearers of the name can be scarce, its Gaelic roots point to a long-standing presence in the Irish landscape. The surname continues to be a recognizable identifier for individuals of Irish descent across the globe.