Mack Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationMack / /mæk/Scottish; Gaelic
Meaning
Scottish: son of; Gaelic: son of the hero
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Mack has its roots in the Gaelic language, deriving from the word "mac," which means "son." This term was commonly used in Scottish and Irish surnames to denote lineage, often followed by the name of an ancestor. The name eventually made its way into English through the influence of Scottish and Irish immigrants, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries, when many settled in English-speaking countries. As a given name, Mack is often considered a diminutive form of names such as Malcolm or MacKenzie, reflecting its origins in familial ties.
Historically, the name Mack has been associated with notable figures, particularly in Scottish history. One prominent example is Saint Malcolm, a 11th-century king of Scotland, who is often remembered for his efforts to unify the country and strengthen its ties with England. His legacy contributed to the enduring popularity of names derived from "Mac," as they symbolized strength and nobility. Additionally, the name appears in various historical texts and genealogies, emphasizing its significance in the context of Scottish heritage.
Culturally, the name Mack carries connotations of familial pride and heritage, reflecting the importance of lineage in Gaelic culture. The use of "Mac" as a prefix in names signifies a connection to one's father or ancestor, which has been a traditional practice in many cultures. This emphasis on ancestry has allowed the name to resonate through generations, maintaining its relevance in various contexts. The name Mack, while simple, encapsulates a rich history that reflects the values of kinship and identity, making it a meaningful choice for many.
Trend Summary
Mack has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., with a resurgence in recent years.
Similar Names
Variants
- Mac
International Variants
- Mack (English)
- Mackenzie (Scottish)
Famous people named Mack
Mack Brown is a college football coach best known for his tenure at the University of Texas and North Carolina.
Mack Sennett was a film director and producer best known for founding Keystone Studios and creating the slapstick comedy genre.
Fictional characters named Mack
Mack is a fictional character from the animated film Cars. He is a friendly and supportive tow truck who assists Lightning McQueen throughout his adventures.
Mack is a fictional character from the video game series Left 4 Dead. He is a member of the survivor group who fights against hordes of zombies in a post-apocalyptic world.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Mack was first seen in the United States in 1880. Mack has ranked as high as #400 nationally, which occurred in 1942, and has been most popular in North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Mack has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Mack (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
TX | 40 | |
OH | 31 | |
MN | 30 | |
CA | 28 | |
UT | 28 | |
IL | 26 | |
NC | 26 | |
NY | 25 | |
MI | 22 | |
PA | 22 | |
FL | 22 | |
TN | 21 | |
IN | 19 | |
GA | 16 | |
MO | 15 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 104 |
1881 | 80 |
1882 | 145 |
1883 | 98 |
1884 | 119 |
1885 | 104 |
1886 | 97 |
1887 | 109 |
1888 | 96 |
1889 | 110 |
1890 | 114 |
1891 | 127 |
1892 | 135 |
1893 | 115 |
1894 | 119 |
1895 | 140 |
1896 | 148 |
1897 | 159 |
1898 | 153 |
1899 | 160 |
1900 | 250 |
1901 | 114 |
1902 | 147 |
1903 | 131 |
1904 | 158 |
1905 | 151 |
1906 | 132 |
1907 | 142 |
1908 | 183 |
1909 | 154 |
1910 | 213 |
1911 | 197 |
1912 | 295 |
1913 | 292 |
1914 | 361 |
1915 | 434 |
1916 | 485 |
1917 | 480 |
1918 | 556 |
1919 | 579 |
1920 | 533 |
1921 | 529 |
1922 | 620 |
1923 | 550 |
1924 | 546 |
1925 | 570 |
1926 | 535 |
1927 | 551 |
1928 | 518 |
1929 | 507 |
1930 | 505 |
1931 | 482 |
1932 | 514 |
1933 | 419 |
1934 | 465 |
1935 | 450 |
1936 | 454 |
1937 | 473 |
1938 | 458 |
1939 | 416 |
1940 | 458 |
1941 | 434 |
1942 | 840 |
1943 | 627 |
1944 | 615 |
1945 | 541 |
1946 | 565 |
1947 | 514 |
1948 | 548 |
1949 | 505 |
1950 | 484 |
1951 | 488 |
1952 | 454 |
1953 | 434 |
1954 | 456 |
1955 | 397 |
1956 | 397 |
1957 | 401 |
1958 | 363 |
1959 | 338 |
1960 | 326 |
1961 | 310 |
1962 | 296 |
1963 | 305 |
1964 | 332 |
1965 | 273 |
1966 | 237 |
1967 | 236 |
1968 | 229 |
1969 | 171 |
1970 | 199 |
1971 | 185 |
1972 | 156 |
1973 | 163 |
1974 | 193 |
1975 | 161 |
1976 | 184 |
1977 | 168 |
1978 | 184 |
1979 | 148 |
1980 | 148 |
1981 | 123 |
1982 | 149 |
1983 | 131 |
1984 | 127 |
1985 | 112 |
1986 | 120 |
1987 | 128 |
1988 | 132 |
1989 | 135 |
1990 | 108 |
1991 | 112 |
1992 | 109 |
1993 | 108 |
1994 | 117 |
1995 | 85 |
1996 | 84 |
1997 | 91 |
1998 | 110 |
1999 | 95 |
2000 | 93 |
2001 | 100 |
2002 | 94 |
2003 | 116 |
2004 | 106 |
2005 | 123 |
2006 | 133 |
2007 | 138 |
2008 | 163 |
2009 | 204 |
2010 | 181 |
2011 | 181 |
2012 | 211 |
2013 | 271 |
2014 | 286 |
2015 | 389 |
2016 | 355 |
2017 | 430 |
2018 | 419 |
2019 | 477 |
2020 | 579 |
2021 | 632 |
2022 | 597 |
2023 | 539 |
2024 | 612 |