Mac is a name of Scottish origin that has gained popularity in recent years. It is derived from the Gaelic given name "Mághchai," which means "son of Gavin." The name Mághchai itself is composed of two elements: "mágh" meaning "son" and "Chaoimhín," a form of the Irish name Seán, which means "God is gracious."
The name Mac has a long history in Scotland. It was traditionally used as a surname rather than a given name, with some of the earliest records dating back to the 13th century. The surname Mac is an anglicized form of the Scottish Gaelic "Mac Mhaighstir Alasdair," which translates to "son of Master Alexander."
In modern times, Mac has been embraced as a unisex given name. It gained significant popularity in the English-speaking world during the 1970s and 1980s but has since seen a decline in usage. However, it remains a unique and distinctive choice for parents looking for an uncommon name with a rich history.
Overall, Mac is a name that carries a strong sense of Scottish heritage and tradition. Its meaning, "son of Gavin," adds to its timeless appeal, making it a solid choice for parents seeking a name with deep roots and a robust character.
The name Mac has seen fluctuations in popularity over the years, with periods of increased usage around 1925 and again from 1945 onwards, reaching its peak recently in 2023 with 9 births. Despite these ups and downs, the overall trend shows a consistent presence of the name Mac throughout the century, with a total of 53 births recorded between 1918 and 2023.