The correct spelling of the surname is "MacLeod," pronounced /məˈklɒd/ or "Muh-kluhd" in IPA phonetic transcription. The "Mac" prefix is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "mac," meaning "son of," while "Leod" is believed to be derived from the Norse name "Ljótr," meaning "ugly" or "dark." The spelling "McLead" is a common misspelling, likely influenced by the similar-sounding name "McLeod," which is also of Scottish origin.