MacSween: Last Name Origin and Family Crest

Long before computers fixed spellings, MacSween and McQueen were used side by side. The name is generally explained as “son of Suibhne, 'pleasant'”. MacSween is listed among the recognised spellings of McQueen. Spellings drifted because names were written down by ear in parish books, tax rolls and passenger lists. You may also find the name written McSween, MacQueen and McQueyn.

Similar-sounding surnames on Herald Lab: MacSweeney, McSweeny and McSweeney.

Heraldry is personal: arms associated with the McQueen surname were borne by specific families, and sharing the name does not mean sharing the blazon. For the full story, order the MacSween surname pack.