Maclain is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'MacLean', meaning 'son of Lean'. Historically used as a surname, it has gained popularity as a first name in recent years. It's associated with Clan Lean, one of Scotland's oldest Highland clans. Composed of 'mac' (meaning 'son of') and 'Lean' (likely derived from 'Oighrig Lean', meaning 'Lean's heir'), Maclain is pronounced 'ma-KLAY-in'.