Mac Shuibhne is a Scottish surname, a variant of Mac Suibhne. The name derives from the Irish Gaelic Mac Suibhne, meaning "son of Suibhne."
Etymology
The root name Suibhne comes from Old Irish Suibne, possibly derived from subae meaning "joy, pleasure." This name was borne by several figures in early Irish history and legend, most notably the 7th-century high king Suibne Menn and the 8th-century saint Suibne. The name also features prominently in the medieval Irish tale Buile Suibhne ("The Madness of Suibhne"), about a king cursed by Saint Rónán Finn who goes mad and wanders the countryside.
Variants
Mac Shuibhne is a common variant of Mac Suibhne. The name has given rise to several anglicized forms, including Sweeney in Ireland and MacQueen and McQueen in Scotland. The Scottish usage of Mac Shuibhne reflects the historical movement of Irish clans to Scotland, particularly the Gallowglass mercenaries.