What does McRae mean and where does it come from?
McRae is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'Mac Ratha', meaning 'son of the red-haired one' or 'son of Ratha'. It has historically been used as a surname and is increasingly being adopted as a given name, especially among individuals of Scottish descent or those wanting to honor
Cultural significance
McRae has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of scottish.
Peak popularity
Reached #13838 in 1994 — currently #971 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with McRae?
McRae works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
McRae Grace
Most popular combo · classic
McRae Rose
Floral · soft ending
McRae Mae
Sweet · timeless
McRae Claire
French influence · crisp
McRae Jane
Literary · strong
McRae Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is McRae right now?
Holding steady — currently #971 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #971 | 1,229 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #976 | 1,209 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #981 | 1,179 | — |
The story of McRae
McRae is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1994. With 31 total births recorded, McRae remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #981 in 2021 to #971 in 2023. McRae is used for both genders: 16% female and 84% male.
Names that peaked alongside McRae in 1994:
McRae by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
| 2000s ★ | 11 | |
| 2010s | 10 | |
💎McRae has only 31 total recorded births since 1994 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for McRae?
What names sound and feel like McRae?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love McRae also consider these
Common questions about the name McRae
What does the name McRae mean?
McRae means "Scottish" — a name rooted in Scotland 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 McRae?
McRae is currently ranked #971 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 McRae?
McRae originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does McRae sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, McRae flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as McRae ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is McRae a common or rare name?
McRae is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.