Surname MacRae - Meaning and Origin
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MacRae: What does the surname MacRae mean?
MacRae is a Scottish surname, derived from the Gaelic phrase "Mac Rath" meaning "son of grace" or "son of prosperity." The name represents descendants of a 13th century Scottish warlord called Fingon. Majority of MacRaes were from the Highlands of Scotland, particularly in Kintail and Lochalsh. In history, they were known as fervent supporters of the Clan Mackenzie. They were high-class warriors and held high-ranking positions within the church and the army. The Clan's motto was "Fortitudine", with the meaning "with fortitude" or "with strength", which further highlights their reputation as warriors. While the surname is primarily found in Scotland, due to migration and the Scottish diaspora, bearers of the MacRae surname can be found around the world today.
Order DNA origin analysisMacRae: Where does the name MacRae come from?
The surname MacRae is of Scottish origin. It derives from the Gaelic Mac Rath, which means "son of grace". The MacRae clan was initially formed in the Highlands of Scotland, particularly concentrated in the regions surrounding Kintail and Lochalsh. They were known as powerful warriors and served as bodyguards to the chief of Clan Mackenzie. The MacRae’s are noted for their instrumental role in the Jacobite uprisings in the 18th century.
Today, the surname MacRae can still be found in Scotland, predominantly in areas such as the Western Isles and Highlands, following the traditional clan territories. However, extensive immigration during the 19th and 20th centuries has resulted in the spreading of this surname worldwide. Countries like Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand saw a significant influx of Scottish emigrants, many of whom carried the MacRae surname, thus making it comparatively common in these countries today. Instances of the surname can be seen in variants such as McRae, Macrae, McCrae, or Mccrea due to phonetic translations during immigration.
Variations of the surname MacRae
The surname MacRae is of Scottish origin and has several variants, derived from the Gaelic ‘Mac Rath’ meaning ‘son of grace’. The most common variants include McRae and McCrae. Both versions simply omit the 'a' from 'Mac', which is often seen in surnames of Scottish or Irish descent. Another variant is Macray, where the 'a' and 'e' in MacRae are switched.
The surname can also be spelled as MacRaith in some Gaelic-speaking parts of Scotland. In Ireland, this surname can also appear as MagRaith owing to different phonetic translations.
The surname Rae is closely linked to MacRae, it is a shorter form and can sometimes be seen prefixed with Mc or Mac as well. MacCrae is another variant that adds an additional 'c'. Some MacRaes with clan connections may also go by the surname Clunes.
It's worth noting that the specific spelling can often vary based on family tradition, regional usage, and personal preference. Many Scottish and Irish surnames have evolved over centuries and got morphed in their spellings due to immigration and translation. MacRae is no exception.
Famous people with the name MacRae
- Gordon MacRae: American actor, singer, and radio and television host.
- Lorn MacRae: Scottish professional footballer.
- Gregory MacRae: Scottish professional footballer.
- Alan MacRae: British film and television actor of the 1950s and 1960s.
- Robert MacRae: English politician.
- Donald MacRae: Canadian journalist, author, and social activist.
- Fraser MacRae: Scottish professional footballer.
- Iain MacRae: Scottish rugby union player.
- William MacRae: British World War II military leader.
- Billy MacRae: American singer and one of the original members of the Chad Mitchell Trio, later known as the Mitchell Trio.