 There is a tradition in the West Highlands that the surname borne there is derived from the Gaelic "Dath riabhach", which is said to be a short form of "Mac 'Ille riabhach"; although etymologist George Fraser Black thought such a derivation doubtful.The present line of chiefs, recognised as such by the Lord Lyon King of Arms since the late 18th century, claimed to descend from a "McIlliriech" from Jura.In 1406 John Darroch was ballie of Stirling.