Mccauley

Scottish

"son of righteousness"

Mccauley Origin and Meaning

The name Mccauley is a boy's name.

Mccauley is a masculine name derived from an Irish and Scottish surname, originating from the Gaelic "Mac Amhalghaidh," meaning "son of Amhalghaidh" (an ancient personal name). As a first name, it emerged following the trend of using family surnames as given names, gaining modest recognition in the late 20th century. The name received a boost in visibility through actor Macaulay Culkin's fame in the 1990s, though the spelling Mccauley remains less common than Macaulay. The prefix "Mc" clearly signals its Celtic heritage, giving it a distinctive cultural connection. While never reaching widespread popularity, Mccauley appeals to parents seeking a name with strong Irish or Scottish roots and a confident, distinctive sound. It carries associations of tradition and heritage while maintaining a contemporary edge.