Mackenzie is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "MacCoinneich," which means "son of Coinneach." The name has been popularized in recent years due to its use by celebrities such as actress Mackenzie Phillips and model Mackenzie Davis.
The name MacKenzie originally referred to a person who was descended from Coinneach, a personal name that is believed to mean either "fair" or "handsome." The surname MacKenzie has a long history in Scotland, with the clan being one of the most powerful and influential in the Highlands. The clan's seat was at Eilean Donan Castle on the shores of Loch Duich, and they played an important role in Scottish politics throughout the medieval period.
Over time, the name MacKenzie evolved from a surname into a given name for both boys and girls. In recent years, it has become particularly popular as a girl's name, with many parents choosing it for its unique sound and Scottish heritage.
In terms of popularity, Mackenzie has been among the top 1000 names for girls in the United States since at least 2007, according to data from the Social Security Administration. It reached its peak popularity in 2014, when it ranked #685. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters.
Overall, Mackenzie is a unique and historic name with deep roots in Scottish culture and history. Its meaning, "son of Coinneach," adds to its charm and significance as a given name for both boys and girls.
The name Mackenzie experienced significant popularity between 1998 and 2003, with a peak of 30 births in 1999. However, it saw a steady decline thereafter, reaching its lowest point with only 5 births recorded in 2014. Overall, there were 329 babies named Mackenzie from 1992 to 2014.