The surname `King' was found frequently in Aberdeenshire during the 15th century. It is thought to have originated as a nickname, denoting someone who had a kingly manner ... or perhaps, in some regions of Scotland, descendants of one who was regarded as the local king. Some sources say that it came from a part played in a pageant, or one of the celtic festivals of the time.
During the troubles of the Clan MacGregor, several of that clan are said to have adopted the surname of `King'.
`King' appears in 90th place on a list of the most common Scottish surnames, but is also frequently found in England and in Ireland.