What does the baby name Maclean mean? Learn about what Maclean means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.
Maclean - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
The name 'Maclean' is a patronymic surname, indicating a family or clan affiliation. The prefix 'Mac' means 'son of' in Gaelic, and 'lean' is derived from 'Gill-Eain' or 'Gille Eathain', which translates to 'servant of Saint John'. Therefore, the name 'Maclean' can be interpreted as 'son of the servant of Saint John.'
The name 'Maclean' holds cultural significance within Scottish heritage and the Clan Maclean. The Clan Maclean has a long history in Scotland, and its members have played significant roles in various aspects of Scottish society, including politics, military, and arts. The name 'Maclean' represents a connection to this proud Scottish lineage and can evoke a sense of cultural identity.