McClinton

McClinton is a surname of Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic name Mac Giolla Chlainn, meaning "son of the devoted follower of [Saint] Clann." The surname is most commonly found in the province of Ulster in Northern Ireland.

Early records of the McClinton surname are scarce, but it is believed to have originated in County Donegal. Over time, families bearing the name migrated to other parts of Ireland and to Great Britain. In the 18th and 19th centuries, many McClintons emigrated to North America, particularly to the United States and Canada, seeking new opportunities.

Notable individuals with the McClinton surname include political figures, athletes, and artists, though no single prominent figure universally defines the name. The distribution of the McClinton surname remains concentrated in areas with historical Irish populations, both within Ireland and in countries that received significant Irish immigration. Like many surnames, variations in spelling may occur due to historical transcription practices and regional dialects. The name continues to be carried by descendants across the globe.