Taylor is one of the most familiar surnames in the English-speaking world, and in Scotland it carries a Highland clan connection alongside its plain occupational meaning. It is a name from a skilled and essential medieval trade.
Quick answer: Taylor is an occupational surname for a tailor, a maker of clothes; in the Highlands it is traditionally counted among the septs of Clan Cameron.
Where Does the Taylor Name Come From?
The name comes from the trade of the tailor, by way of the Old French tailleur — a cutter and maker of clothes. In an age when clothing was made by hand and a good tailor was a valued craftsman, the occupation readily became a surname. It is found across Britain, and in Scotland it settled among many families.
In the Highlands, Taylor is traditionally counted as a sept of Clan Cameron, said to descend from a branch of that clan; the Gaelic Mac an Tàilleir, “son of the tailor,” carries the same meaning. For the parent clan's story, see our history of Clan Cameron.
Own a Piece of Taylor Heritage
The Taylor name appears across keepsakes including an outdoor garden flag and a Christmas ornament, each pairing the family name with a tartan-background crest design.
Popular Taylor gifts: Garden Flag · Ornament
Frequently Asked Questions About the Taylor Name
What nationality is the Taylor surname?
Taylor is found across Britain; in Scotland it has a Highland clan connection through Clan Cameron.
What does the Taylor name mean?
It comes from the occupation of the tailor, a maker of clothes.
Is Taylor a sept of a clan?
In Scotland Taylor is traditionally counted as a sept of Clan Cameron.
Is Taylor a clan in its own right?
No. Taylor is an occupational surname associated with Clan Cameron rather than a clan with its own chief.
If you're proud of your Taylor heritage, you can explore gifts and home décor featuring the Taylor name by using the search bar above.
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