The spelling of the word "maughan" may be confusing to some due to its non-phonetic spelling. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /ˈmɔːn/ or "mawn." The "augh" combination is not pronounced as it appears and instead produces a long "aw" sound. This name may have originated from the Gaelic word Mac Eoghain, meaning "son of Eoghan," which is another way of spelling "Owen." Despite its unusual spelling, the name Maughan is a common surname in Ireland and the United Kingdom.