The spelling of "McWhirter" can be a bit tricky based on the pronunciation of the name. It is pronounced "məkˈhʊrtər" where the "c" is silent and the "w" is pronounced as "h". The "i" is pronounced as "ɪ" and the "e" is pronounced as "ə" in the second syllable. The final "er" is pronounced as "ər". It is important to know the correct pronunciation and spelling of names as it demonstrates respect and attention to detail when addressing someone.
There is no widely accepted etymology for the surname "McWhirter". However, it is believed to be of Scottish origin. The prefix "Mc" in Scottish surnames usually denotes a patronymic, meaning "son of" or "descendant of". The second part, "Whirter", could be derived from various possible sources. One theory suggests that it stemmed from the Old English word "hwyrtran", meaning "to swallow greedily", potentially suggesting an ancestor with a hearty appetite. Another theory relates it to the word "whirr", which means to make a low, vibrating sound, possibly implying an ancestor with a distinctive voice or manner of speech. Ultimately, without a definitive historical record, the exact etymology of "McWhirter" remains uncertain.