An Irish surname, Maguire comes from the Gaelic terms ‘mag uidhir’ which refers to the son of Odhar (an early ruler of Ireland) and its original meaning was dull-colored. Variations in spelling Maguire include McGuire, MacGuire, McGuire, Guiry, Guire and Guirey. In England and Wales the Maguire name is across most of the regions. It is strongest in the city of London and Lancashire county. In Scotland the counties of Lanarkshire and Midlothian have the greater Maguire populations. In Ireland it is a very popular name especially in Ulster, County Cavan, County Monaghan and County Fermanagh. Within the United States the Maguire family name is concentrated in Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Illinois and California. Famous: Clare Maguire (singer and songwriter from England), Darragh Maguire (a professional footballer from Ireland), Jeff Maguire (a movie film screenwriter), George Maguire (acclaimed English actor), Leona and Lisa Maguire (professional golfer from Ireland and twins), Martie Maguire (songwriter and singer with the Dixie Chicks), Tobey Maguire (movie film actor) and Paul Maguire (professional football player and sport broadcaster).