MacInnes

MacInnes is a Scottish surname. It is an Anglicized form of the Scottish Gaelic Mac Aonghais, meaning "son of Aonghas." Aonghas itself is derived from Aonghus, an Old Irish name possibly meaning "one strength" from the elements óen "one" and guss "force, strength." In Irish mythology, Aonghus (also known as Mac Óg "young son") was a god of love and youth, a member of the Tuatha Dé Danann and son of the Dagda and Boann. The name was also borne by an 8th-century Pictish king, several Irish kings, and a few saints, including a 9th-century bishop of Tallaght.

The surname MacInnes is one of several variants derived from Mac Aonghais, including MacAngus, McInnes, and the original Gaelic MacAonghais. Cognate surnames in Irish include MacGuinness (anglicized as Guinness) and Hennessy, reflecting the widespread Gaelic naming tradition.

Notable Bearers

• Angus MacInnes (1947–2024), Canadian actor known for Star Wars and Independence Day
• Hamish MacInnes (1930–2020), Scottish mountaineer and inventor of the all-metal ice axe
• Helen MacInnes (1907–1985), Scottish-American author of spy thrillers
• John MacInnes (1925–1983), Canadian ice hockey player and coach for the Michigan Tech Huskies
• Campbell MacInnes (1901–1977), Anglican bishop in Melanesia
• Duncan A. MacInnes (1885–1965), American chemist known for work with electrolytes (MacInnes equation)

Cultural Significance

The MacInnes clan was historically centered in the Scottish Highlands, particularly in Argyllshire and the islands of Mull and Jura. The name is also found in Irish contexts, reflecting shared Gaelic heritage. The surname gained wider recognition through notable humans in various fields, from mountaineering to cinema.

• Meaning: "son of Aonghas"
• Origin: Scottish Gaelic
• Type: Patronymic surname
• Usage: Scottish, Irish
• Variants: McInnes, MacAngus, MacAonghais; related: MacGuinness, Guinness, Hennessy