MallowbyNames

Mclane

muh-KLAYN · son of the servant of Saint John; a surname transferred to given name use, possibly of Scottish or Irish origin

2025 rank (boys)
#8,243
Babies named in 2025
9
Peak popularity
1996
2025 frequency
1 in 189,786 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 2013

Rising since 2013, #8,243 for boys today.

Popularity of Mclane since 1993

Babies named Mclane per year in U.S. Social Security records.

5914200020102020Most births 1996GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1990s054
2000s023
2010s532
2020s1027

Meaning & origin

Mclane is a rare Scottish surname-turned-first name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1993. Its peak in popularity came early, in 1996, when it reached its highest rank. Since 2013, the name has been rising again, reflecting a broader trend toward surname names and distinctive choices. While it has not yet broken into the top ranks, its consistent upward trajectory suggests a slowly growing appeal. The name is derived from the Gaelic Mac Gille Eathain, a clan name with deep roots in Scottish history, and is often associated with the simplified spelling McLean. Despite its rarity, Mclane offers a strong, classic feel with a modern edge.

Mclane is a variant of the surname MacLean, derived from the Scottish Gaelic Mac Gille Eathain, meaning 'son of the servant of Saint John.' The clan MacLean played a prominent role in Scottish history. As a given name, Mclane emerged in the United States in the late 20th century, likely influenced by the popularity of surname-style first names and possibly by the fictional character John McClane from the Die Hard film series, though the spelling differs.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Mac, Laney, Lane

Variants: McLane, MacLane, MacLean, McLean

Sibling names for Mclane

Names that share Mclane's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

M is for Mclane, our favorite little boy.

M is for Mclane…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Mclane's letter becomes Mclane's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Mclane mean?
Mclane is a surname-derived given name meaning 'son of the servant of Saint John,' from Scottish Gaelic Mac Gille Eathain.
How popular is Mclane?
Mclane is a rare name. In 2023, it ranked 8243rd in the U.S. with about 1 in every 189,786 newborn boys receiving the name.
Is Mclane a boy or girl name?
Mclane is used primarily for boys, though it could be considered unisex due to its surname style.