What does Macy mean and where does it come from?
Macy is derived from the Old French surname Macey, which is itself derived from the place name Massy in France. The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world in the 20th century. It is often associated with notions of practicality, with some people linking it to Macy's department store ch
Cultural significance
Macy has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a derivative of the surname macey, which is of french origin and means 'sower of seeds'..
Peak popularity
Reached #219 in 2003 — currently #720 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Macy?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Macy?
Macy works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Macy Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Macy Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Macy Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Macy Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Macy Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Macy Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Macy right now?
Falling — down 57 spots — currently #720 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #720 | 390 | ▼ down 57 · -12% births |
| 2024 | #663 | 441 | ▼ down 82 · -73% births |
| 2023 | #581 | 1,619 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #586 | 1,599 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #591 | 1,569 | ▲ up 26 · +235% births |
| 2020 | #617 | 469 | ▼ down 203 · -39% births |
| 2015 | #414 | 772 | ▼ down 123 · -31% births |
| 2010 | #291 | 1,114 | ▼ down 48 · -19% births |
| 2005 | #243 | 1,368 | ▼ down 10 · -1% births |
| 2000 | #233 | 1,375 | ▲ up 110 · +79% births |
| 1995 | #343 | 770 | ▲ up 296 · +119% births |
| 1990 | #639 | 351 | ▲ up 2117 · +932% births |
| 1985 | #2756 | 34 | ▼ down 208 · -8% births |
| 1980 | #2548 | 37 | ▲ up 1419 · +131% births |
| 1975 | #3967 | 16 | — |
The story of Macy
Macy has been a beloved American name for over 139 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1885. A total of 31,151 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #918 in 1885 to #581 in 2023. Macy is used for both genders: 98% female and 2% male.
Names that peaked alongside Macy in 2003:
Macy by decade
Macy peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 21 | |
| 1890s | 93 | |
| 1900s | 141 | |
| 1910s | 264 | |
| 1920s | 335 | |
| 1930s | 218 | |
| 1940s | 171 | |
| 1950s | 173 | |
| 1960s | 170 | |
| 1970s | 315 | |
| 1980s | 658 | |
| 1990s | 6,966 | |
| 2000s ★ | 13,259 | |
| 2010s | 7,898 | |
| 2020s | 1,300 | |
What are good nicknames for Macy?
What names sound and feel like Macy?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Macy also consider these
How is Macy written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Macy
What does the name Macy mean?
Macy means "A derivative of the surname Macey, which is of French origin and means 'sower of seeds'." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Macy?
Macy is currently ranked #581 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Macy?
Macy originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Macy?
Macy is a two-syllable name pronounced MAY-see. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Macy more of a girl or boy name?
Macy is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.