The surname McNamara is of Irish origin, deriving from the Gaelic "Mac Conmara," which means "son of Cumara." The name Cumara itself can be translated as "hound of the sea" or "warrior of the sea." The McNamara family was a prominent clan in County Clare, Ireland, and played a significant role in Irish history, particularly as leaders in the region of Thomond. The McNamara's were known as lords of Clancullen, and their influence peaked during the medieval period. They were closely allied with the O'Brien family, the kings of Thomond.