The McNamara Coat of Arms and Name Meaning
Discover the meaning of McNamara, its origins in Ireland, and the story behind a McNamara family crest.
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Origin of the McNamara name
McNamara comes from Mac Conmara, "son of Cú Mara", a personal name meaning "hound of the sea". The MacNamaras were the leading sept of the Dál gCais after the O'Briens and ruled Clann Chuiléin in east County Clare. They were great castle builders: Knappogue Castle was raised by a MacNamara in the 15th century. The name is still most common in Clare and neighbouring Limerick.
Our historical archives hold much more on the McNamara name: dates, names and records of early bearers.
This overview covers the McNamara name in Ireland. We also hold records of the name in other countries, such as the United States, Australia and England; your full pack is researched for your family's country of origin.
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The complete McNamara pack goes much further: documented origins, early records and family spread, plus a hand-checked coat of arms.
McNamara name FAQ
What does the McNamara name mean?
Son of Cú Mara ("hound of the sea"). Common variants include MacNamara, Macnamara, Mack.
Where does the McNamara surname come from?
It originates in Ireland, and is also found in the United States, Australia and England.
Is there a McNamara coat of arms?
Arms were granted to individuals, not whole surnames, so there is no single McNamara crest. Herald Lab paints a personalized McNamara coat of arms based on historic heraldry.
Researched by Herald Lab Research Studio, since 1993. Sources: MacLysaght, The Surnames of Ireland; Dictionary of American Family Names (Oxford).