What does McCabe mean and where does it come from?
McCabe is an Irish surname derived from the Gaelic name 'MacCaib', which means 'son of Caib' (with Caib meaning hound). The name has been prevalent in Ireland, mainly associated with the province of Leinster. The McCabe family has a long history in Ireland and is linked with various historical figur
Cultural significance
McCabe has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #7757 in 1999 — currently #1991 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with McCabe?
McCabe works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
McCabe Grace
Most popular combo · classic
McCabe Rose
Floral · soft ending
McCabe Mae
Sweet · timeless
McCabe Claire
French influence · crisp
McCabe Jane
Literary · strong
McCabe Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is McCabe right now?
Holding steady — currently #1991 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1991 | 209 | ▲ up 5 · +11% births |
| 2022 | #1996 | 189 | ▲ up 5 · +19% births |
| 2021 | #2001 | 159 | ▲ up 8104 · +2171% births |
| 2015 | #10105 | 7 | ▲ up 1385 · +17% births |
| 2010 | #11490 | 6 | ▼ down 2660 |
| 1995 | #8830 | 6 | — |
The story of McCabe
McCabe is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1995. With 105 total births recorded, McCabe remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8830 in 1995 to #1991 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside McCabe in 1999:
McCabe by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1990s | 27 | |
| 2000s ★ | 49 | |
| 2010s | 29 | |
💎McCabe has only 105 total recorded births since 1995 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for McCabe?
Common
MccMccabMccabieMccabyAbe
What names sound and feel like McCabe?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love McCabe also consider these
Common questions about the name McCabe
What does the name McCabe mean?
McCabe means "Irish" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 McCabe?
McCabe is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of McCabe?
McCabe originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland 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 McCabe?
McCabe is a two-syllable name pronounced M AE1 K AH0 B IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is McCabe a common or rare name?
McCabe is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.