The meaning of head of the pass for Kincaid came from interpreting it using modern Gaelic. An interpretation based on its original spellings indicates that it was P Celtic and probably meant head (or end) of the woods. See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pencoed for a similar placename in Wales which kept Pen. Keep in mind that Kirkintilloch was also originally P Celtic with Kir substituted for Kir and kin for pen. This shows how Q Celtic of the Scots came to take over the area from the British who formerly had their Kingdom of Strathclyde centered on Dumbarton. Best wishes! Peter P.S. Also keep an eye out for Kynked, Kinked, Kinkeid, etc. ----- Original Message ----- From: Don W. Kincaid To: Kincaid Rootsweb List Sent: Monday, January 05, 2009 5:58 PM Subject: [KINCAID] Kyncatke 1550 We found another spelling of our surname that is new to me. Kyncatke. According to the book "Place Names of Stirlingshire" it was used in 1550. Kincaid (Lennoxtown). 1238 Kincaith, 1550 Kyncatke* G. cinn (locative of ceann) cadha, " at the head of the pass." http://www.archive.org/stream/placenamesofstir00johnuoft/placenamesofstir00johnuoft_djvu.txt Don W. Kincaid