Speaking in terms of linguistics, most languages use word devices
to indicate relationships. These are usually similar within related
languages. Since Clan names and Surnames can take on slight changes
everytime people and/ or borders move, it can be helpful to understand how
these devices are used. It is also helpful to understand naming patterns
within cultres, but that is more difficult because cultures are more
susceptible to change than language.
In Gaelic....
Mac (Mc) means "son of" or it can indicate which of something is younger,
as in Jr.
Fine means tribe, clan or kindred.
O' is usually used for "Of"or "From"
In Dutch/German
Van or Von usually indicates "from" or "Of"
In Latin languages --(Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian,etc.)
De or Di usually indicates "From" or "Of"
ita or ito as a suffix indicates younger of
In Scandinavian/ Norwegian
Son is added to the end of Surnames to indicate descendance (for example:
Leif "Ericson" was "the son of Eric".. "the Red" to be
precise)