What does McCartney mean and where does it come from?
McCartney is of Irish and Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'Mac Artain', meaning 'son of Artan'. Although originally a surname, it has gained popularity as a given name, particularly due to the influence of Paul McCartney of The Beatles. The name has seen a rise in usage as a first name in r
Cultural significance
McCartney has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of the carpenter.
Peak popularity
Reached #6085 in 2008 — currently #9433 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Rising fast — up 5219 spots — currently #9433 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 2000–2022#9433 · Top 7.0%
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2022
#9433
11
▲ up 5219 · +83% births
2021
#14652
6
▼ down 4825 · -40% births
2020
#9827
10
▼ down 3477 · -50% births
2015
#6350
20
▲ up 7841 · +186% births
2010
#14191
7
▼ down 331
2005
#13860
7
▲ up 559 · +17% births
2000
#14419
6
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for McCartney
2015Rank #6350
20
#11819
↗Rising
2000 - 20227 years
The story of McCartney
McCartney is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1996. With 394 total births recorded, McCartney remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #14419 in 2000 to #9433 in 2022. McCartney is used for both genders: 73% female and 27% male.
McCartney means "Son of the carpenter" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 McCartney?
McCartney is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for McCartney have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of McCartney?
McCartney originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom 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 McCartney?
McCartney is a three-syllable name pronounced M AH0 K AA1 R T N IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with McCartney?
McCartney pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar United Kingdom heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with McCartney
For a sister
McCartney & Ashley♡
McCartney & London♡
McCartney & Bowen♡
McCartney & Leighton♡
For a brother
McCartney & London♡
McCartney & Bowen♡
McCartney & Leighton♡
McCartney & Skye♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks
Worldwide ranking · 2022
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#9433
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
Parents who viewed McCartney also looked at…
Based on what other parents saved alongside McCartney