Macbeth: a male name of Scottish (Gaelic) origin meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life)".It derives from the Scottish (Gaelic) word "MACAMHLAIDH / MAC AMHALGHAIDH".
Macbeth has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Scottish (Gaelic) roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life)" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Macbeth
Quick facts about Macbeth
Origin
Scottish (Gaelic), Irish (Gaelic)
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life). In turn, the name means “son of life, holiness.” 1) Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, or in English Macbeth (1005–1057), was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057. He is best known for the tragedy of the same name by William Shakespeare. 2) Macbeth is one of the best-known and most quoted Shakespearean tragedies. It dramatizes the catastrophic physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for their own self-interest. The tragedy unfolds in a gloomy early Middle Ages Scotland, in an atmosphere of lightning and thunder.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
MACAMHLAIDH / MAC AMHALGHAIDH
How to Pronounce Macbeth
Macbeth is pronounced /məkˈbɛθ/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Mac-bet-h
Say it like: "MOOHKBEHTH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across irish, and scottish speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
irishscottish
Frequently Asked Questions About Macbeth
What does the name Macbeth mean?
Macbeth means "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life). In turn, the name means “son of life, holiness.” 1) Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, or in English Macbeth (1005–1057), was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057. He is best known for the tragedy of the same name by William Shakespeare. 2) Macbeth is one of the best-known and most quoted Shakespearean tragedies. It dramatizes the catastrophic physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for their own self-interest. The tragedy unfolds in a gloomy early Middle Ages Scotland, in an atmosphere of lightning and thunder.". The name comes from MACAMHLAIDH / MAC AMHALGHAIDH. This scottish (gaelic) name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Macbeth for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life). In turn, the name means “son of life, holiness.” 1) Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, or in English Macbeth (1005–1057), was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057. He is best known for the tragedy of the same name by William Shakespeare. 2) Macbeth is one of the best-known and most quoted Shakespearean tragedies. It dramatizes the catastrophic physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for their own self-interest. The tragedy unfolds in a gloomy early Middle Ages Scotland, in an atmosphere of lightning and thunder." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Macbeth's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Macbeth?
Macbeth has scottish (gaelic) and irish (gaelic) origins. The name traces back to MACAMHLAIDH / MAC AMHALGHAIDH. From its scottish (gaelic) roots, Macbeth spread to become common in irish, scottish. The scottish (gaelic) meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life). In turn, the name means “son of life, holiness.” 1) Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, or in English Macbeth (1005–1057), was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057. He is best known for the tragedy of the same name by William Shakespeare. 2) Macbeth is one of the best-known and most quoted Shakespearean tragedies. It dramatizes the catastrophic physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for their own self-interest. The tragedy unfolds in a gloomy early Middle Ages Scotland, in an atmosphere of lightning and thunder." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Macbeth a boy or girl name?
Macbeth is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In scottish (gaelic) tradition, Macbeth has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life). In turn, the name means “son of life, holiness.” 1) Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, or in English Macbeth (1005–1057), was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057. He is best known for the tragedy of the same name by William Shakespeare. 2) Macbeth is one of the best-known and most quoted Shakespearean tragedies. It dramatizes the catastrophic physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for their own self-interest. The tragedy unfolds in a gloomy early Middle Ages Scotland, in an atmosphere of lightning and thunder." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Macbeth?
Macbeth is pronounced "/məkˈbɛθ/". This pronunciation follows ga language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Macbeth is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in irish, scottish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with scottish (gaelic) names, listening to a native speaker say Macbeth can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Macbeth?
Macbeth is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Macbeth offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Macbeth's popularity may vary between scottish (gaelic) communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life). In turn, the name means “son of life, holiness.” 1) Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, or in English Macbeth (1005–1057), was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057. He is best known for the tragedy of the same name by William Shakespeare. 2) Macbeth is one of the best-known and most quoted Shakespearean tragedies. It dramatizes the catastrophic physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for their own self-interest. The tragedy unfolds in a gloomy early Middle Ages Scotland, in an atmosphere of lightning and thunder." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Macbeth holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Macbeth commonly used?
Macbeth is common in irish and scottish naming traditions. Though scottish (gaelic) in origin, Macbeth found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” composed of two elements: “mac” (son) plus “betha / bethu” (life). In turn, the name means “son of life, holiness.” 1) Mac Bethad mac Findlaích, or in English Macbeth (1005–1057), was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057. He is best known for the tragedy of the same name by William Shakespeare. 2) Macbeth is one of the best-known and most quoted Shakespearean tragedies. It dramatizes the catastrophic physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power for their own self-interest. The tragedy unfolds in a gloomy early Middle Ages Scotland, in an atmosphere of lightning and thunder." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Macbeth into their naming traditions. A child named Macbeth will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Macbeth is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.