Maclean is a Scottish surname and given name of Gaelic origin. It is derived from the Gaelic name 'Mac Leathan', which means 'son of Lean'. The name Lean itself comes from the Irish name 'O'Leathlobhair', which means 'descendant of Lobhar', who was a famous warrior in ancient Ireland.
The Maclean clan are said to have originated from the area around Mull and Morven in Scotland. They were known for their bravery and skill in battle, and their chief, Sir Lachlan Mor MacLean, played a significant role in supporting Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Over time, Maclean has become a popular given name as well as a surname, especially among Scottish families or those with Scottish ancestry. It is often used to honor family history or to pay homage to the brave and warrior spirit associated with the Maclean clan.
While there are no specific holidays or character traits associated with the name Maclean, it does have a rich historical background that makes it an interesting choice for a name. Its Gaelic origins give it a unique and distinctive sound, making it a popular choice among those who appreciate Scottish culture and history.
The name Maclean has seen a varied level of popularity in the United States over the past few decades, with a total of 286 babies given this name during this period.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, there were relatively fewer births with the name Maclean. Between 1987 and 1995, only five to nineteen babies were named Maclean each year. However, starting from 1996, the number of annual births with this name began to increase significantly.
The years 1997 and 2000 saw a peak in popularity for the name Maclean, with 19 and 23 babies respectively being given this name during these years. This trend continued into the early 2000s, with 16 and 13 births recorded in 2000 and 2001.
After a brief decline in popularity between 2004 and 2008 (with only seven to nine babies named Maclean each year), the name began to regain its popularity. Between 2009 and 2023, there were six to nineteen births with the name Maclean annually, indicating a consistent level of popularity for this name.
Overall, while the name Maclean may not have been as popular as some other names during the period analyzed, it has maintained a steady presence in the United States. Its popularity has fluctuated over time but has generally shown an upward trend since the mid-1990s.