Mac
Mac is a boy name of Scottish origin meaning “Son of”, pronounced MAK. It ranked #696 in the United States in 2025, given to 390 babies, and peaked at #308 in 1942. Common nicknames: Macky.
How popular is Mac in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Mac mean, and where does it come from?
Mac is the Gaelic word for son, the prefix at the front of a thousand Scottish and Irish surnames, and it has been used on its own as a given name and a nickname since the nineteenth century — American records hold it from 1880. It also serves as the short form of Malcolm, Maxwell, McCoy and anything else beginning with the sound. It peaked in 1942, when every unit in the army had one, and is rising again now with the other blunt one-syllable names: Gus, Cash, Beau, Jack.
How is Mac used around the world?
Mac is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 6+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Mac?
Famous People Named Mac
- Mac Davis — American singer, songwriter and actor
- Mac Wilkins — American discus thrower and Olympic champion
- Mac Miller — American rapper and record producer
Similar Names to Mac
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Sibling Name Ideas for Mac
Looking for names that pair well with Mac? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Mac mean?
Mac is a boy name of Scottish origin meaning "Son of." Mac is the Gaelic word for son, the prefix at the front of a thousand Scottish and Irish surnames, and it has been used on its own as a given name and a nickname since the nineteenth century — American records hold it from 1880. It also serves as the short form of Malcolm, Maxwell, McCoy and anything else beginning with the sound.
How do you pronounce Mac?
Mac is pronounced MAK. Common variations include Mack, Macklin, Maxwell.
Is Mac a boy name?
Yes, Mac is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Macky.