Meaning & History
MacRae is a Scottish surname, a variant of McRae, which originates from the Gaelic Mag Raith, meaning "son of Rath." The personal name Rath itself derives from a Gaelic word meaning "prosperity" or "grace." Thus, MacRae carries the sense of "descendant of the prosperous or gracious one."
Like many Scottish surnames beginning with Mac- or Mc-, MacRae reflects a patronymic tradition, where the prefix indicates "son of." The name is strongly associated with the Scottish Highlands, particularly the Clan MacRae, a prominent clan historically centered in Kintail in the Scottish Highlands. The clan played a notable role in the region's history, often serving as constables of Eilean Donan Castle and supporters of the Mackenzie clan.
Variants of the surname include McCrae and Rae, as well as the original Gaelic form Mag Raith. The name is also found in Ireland, where the same Gaelic root Mag Raith appears.
- Meaning: Variant of McRae, meaning "son of Rath" ("prosperity" or "grace")
- Origin: Scottish Gaelic
- Type: Surname (patronymic)
- Usage regions: Scotland, Ireland