From the Gaelic "Maccoinneach" meaning "fair,
bright one", the MacKenzies are thought to descend from the
ancient royal house of Lorn.
The clan held lands in Ross-shire, stretching from the Outer Hebrides
in the west, to the Black Isle in the east. The western stronghold
of the clan MacKenzie was at Eilean Donan Castle at the mouth of
Loch Duich.