McGrath

McGrath is a surname of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic form Mac Grath. It is commonly spelled McGrath or MacGrath and has historically been associated with families in Ireland. The name is typically interpreted as meaning “son of Grath” or “descendant of Grath,” with Grath serving as a personal name in early Gaelic usage. The surname has long been established in Ireland and spread to Irish communities abroad through migration and diaspora.

Variants and distribution: In addition to McGrath, MacGrath and, less commonly, Magrath appear as spellings of the same name. Today, McGrath is widespread across the English-speaking world, with notable concentrations in Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting historical emigration patterns.

Geography and culture: The name has been used in place names in regions with Irish influence. The best-known geographic use is McGrath, Alaska, a small community on the Kuskokwim River in the United States, established during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Beyond places, numerous individuals bearing the surname have contributed to politics, sports, science, and the arts, illustrating its longstanding presence in public life.