McNaught

McNaught is a surname of Scottish and Irish origin. It is an anglicized form of the Gaelic surname Mac Neachtain, meaning "son of Neachtain". Neachtain is a personal name derived from the Gaelic word "neacht" meaning "pure" or "clean". The name is most common in Scotland and Ireland, particularly in the provinces of Ulster and Connacht. Notable individuals with the surname McNaught include Donald McNaught, a Scottish astronomer, and Alan McNaught, a Canadian politician. The name has also been adopted by families in other English-speaking countries through migration. Variations of the surname include McNechtan, McNachtan, and Neachtan. The McNaught family crest typically features a lion rampant, symbolizing courage and strength.