Declining since 1993, #4,987 for girls today.
Popularity of Mccall since 1977
Babies named Mccall per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 12 | 0 |
| 1980s | 186 | 0 |
| 1990s | 439 | 44 |
| 2000s | 223 | 17 |
| 2010s | 177 | 29 |
| 2020s | 100 | 44 |
Meaning & origin
McCall entered the U.S. popularity charts in 1977, a relatively late arrival for a name rooted in a centuries-old Scottish surname. Its peak came in 1993, when it ranked 4,987th nationally, but it has been falling in use since that year. As of 2025, the name is given to roughly 1 in every 61,818 newborn girls, maintaining a quiet presence. McCall has seen particular favor in Utah and Texas, two states known for distinctive name choices. The name's adoption as a feminine given name fits a broader trend of surnames crossing over into first names, especially those with a sleek, two-syllable sound. While its meaning ties to ancient Gaelic battle chieftains, its modern appeal lies in its crisp, preppy feel and its unisex versatility.
McCall is an Anglicized form of the Scottish Gaelic Mac Cathail, meaning 'son of Cathal'. The name Cathal derives from the Old Irish elements cath 'battle' and fal 'rule'. As a given name, McCall is a modern adoption of the surname, which emerged in the United States in the late 20th century, likely influenced by surname-as-first-name trends.
Where Mccall is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mac, Cal
Sibling names for Mccall
Names that share Mccall's style, for a brother or sister.
