Maclaren is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Gaelic word "Mac Lachainn," which means "son of Lachlan." Lachlan is another Scottish Gaelic name that means "from the land of lochs" or "land of the lochs."
The Maclarens are a clan that originated in Scotland, and they have a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The clan was founded by Lachlan Mor (Lachlan the Great), who was a chieftain of the Mackintoshes. His grandson, also named Lachlan, became the first Chief of Clan MacLaren in 1296.
The Maclarens played an important role in Scottish history, participating in many battles and conflicts, including the Wars of Independence against England. They were known for their bravery and skill as warriors, and their crest features a galley with three oars, symbolizing their seamanship and their ability to overcome obstacles.
Over time, Maclaren has become a popular given name as well as a surname. While it is still most commonly found in Scotland, it has also spread to other parts of the world, including England, Ireland, and even as far away as Australia and New Zealand.
In terms of popularity, Maclaren is not one of the most common names, which adds to its uniqueness and distinctiveness. It is a name that commands attention and stands out from more traditional or commonly used names.
Overall, Maclaren is a strong and historic Scottish name with a rich heritage and a distinctive meaning. It is a name that carries a sense of pride, bravery, and determination, reflecting the values and qualities of the MacLaren clan throughout history.
The name Maclaren has seen a varied trend in popularity over the past decade and a half in the United States. In 2002, there were 5 newborns given this unique name. This number fluctuated somewhat over the years, reaching a peak of 9 births in 2012. The following year saw a slight decline with 6 births recorded in 2013. Then, it rebounded to 7 births in 2016.
In total, there have been 40 babies named Maclaren born in the United States between 2002 and 2016. While this is not a particularly common name, it has maintained a steady presence throughout these years. It's fascinating to observe how the popularity of names can vary over time, and Maclaren provides an interesting example of this trend.