Mc Donagh Surname Translation

cmcd2526 wrote: »

Hi

I am wondering what the correct translation for the "Mc Donagh" surname is.

I have been told "Mac Donnachadha" is the correct translation but I have also been told that it is the male translation, where I am looking for the female translation.

Some say to put Ní in front is that right?

Id apprectiate if anyone could help.

Thanks

Just adding to what Insect Overlord has already said; Ó becomes Ní in the unmarried female version, and Mac becomes Nic and the word following will generally (though not always) take a séimhiú ('h' after the initial consanant). So if McDonagh is your maiden name, the Irish female version would be, as already stated, Nic Dhonncha.

But that's only if it's your maiden name and not your married name. It would be Mhic Dhonncha if it's your married name.

There are two forms of spelling of this name, which are the traditional and modern form. Nic Dhonnchadha is the traditional and Nic Dhonncha is the modern one. Both are correct and acceptable in common usage, though the modern one is more reflective of the modern pronunciation of the language (i.e. no silent letters). Which one you choose to use is a matter of personal taste really.

I agree with IO's recommended pronunciation of the name.

If you wish to do anymore research on this yourself, I recommend An Sloinnteoir Gaeilge agus an tAinmneoir by Muiris Ó Droighneáin and The Surnames of Ireland by Edward MacLysaght, both of which can be purchased online.