Lennox is both Irish and Scottish in terms of its origins and usage as a surname. It is a habitational name derived from a district near Dumbarton, which is located in modern-day Scotland. The district was first recorded in 1174 as Leuenaichs and then as Levenax in the following year.
The name Lennox is believed to have originated from Gaelic, specifically from the word “leamhan,” which means “elm.” It is combined with the locative suffix “-ach” and the English plural suffix “-s” to form the name.
In terms of its usage as a surname, Lennox is found in both Scottish and Northern Irish genealogy. Many individuals with the surname Lennox can trace their ancestry back to these regions. The surname often indicates familial ties to the Lennox district in Scotland or to individuals who migrated from Scotland to Northern Ireland.
Personally, I have come across individuals with the surname Lennox who identify as both Scottish and Northern Irish. They often take pride in their heritage and maintain connections to both regions. It is not uncommon for individuals with Scottish or Northern Irish ancestry to have a mix of both cultures and traditions.
To summarize, the surname Lennox is rooted in the Scottish district near Dumbarton and has connections to Gaelic language. It is used by individuals with Scottish and Northern Irish heritage and signifies ties to the Lennox district or migration from Scotland to Northern Ireland.