McCoy is a surname of Irish origin that comes from the Gaelic word "MacAoidh," which means "son of Aodh." Aodh was an early Irish god of the sun, and thus the name McCoy has been associated with strength, courage, and vitality throughout history.
The name first appeared in Ireland during the 12th century, where it was borne by a family that settled in County Tyrone. The McCoys were known for their bravery and military prowess, serving as warriors and leaders in various Irish clans over the centuries.
In the modern era, the name McCoy has gained fame through popular culture. Notably, Captain James T. Kirk's first officer on the USS Enterprise in the Star Trek franchise was named Montgomery "Scotty" Scott, whose full name is revealed to be "Montgomery Scott, Lieutenant Commander, Chief Engineer, McCoy Maru." This has further popularized the name and its Irish origins.
Today, McCoy remains a surname of Irish descent that carries with it a rich history of strength and courage. It is also a name that continues to resonate in popular culture, as seen through its association with iconic characters like Scotty from Star Trek.
The name Mccoy has seen a varied level of popularity over the past two decades in the United States. In 2005, there were only 5 babies named Mccoy. However, between 2008 and 2016, the number of newborns given this name ranged from 6 to 9 each year, indicating a steady increase in popularity during this period.
After a slight dip in 2016 with 6 births, the name Mccoy experienced another resurgence, reaching double-digit figures between 2018 and 2021. The highest peak was reached in 2021, with an impressive 11 babies named Mccoy.
While it may not be among the most popular names in recent years, the name Mccoy has maintained a consistent presence in the United States, with a total of 90 newborns given this name between 2005 and 2023. This statistic demonstrates that while the popularity of the name Mccoy may fluctuate from year to year, it remains a recognized and chosen name for babies in the United States.