A Scottish and Irish surname meaning 'son of fire' or 'son of Aodh', also used as a given name.
From Scottish Gaelic 'Mac Aodha' meaning 'son of Aodh', where Aodh means 'fire'. The name spread through Scottish clan system and Irish immigration, becoming common in North America and Australia through diaspora movements.
The McKay clan motto is 'Manu forti' meaning 'with a strong hand', reflecting the warrior heritage associated with this Highland Scottish surname. Interestingly, many McKays don't realize their name literally means 'child of fire', connecting them to ancient Celtic fire worship.
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