Macrine: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed".It derives from the Latin word "măcĕr > Macra".
Macrine has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Latin roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Macrine
Quick facts about Macrine
Origin
Latin
Gender
Girl 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 Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
măcĕr > Macra
How to Pronounce Macrine
Macrine is pronounced /məˈkraɪn/(Latin)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Macrin-e
Say it like: "MOOHKRAEEHN"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Macrine is predominantly used in french speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
french
Frequently Asked Questions About Macrine
What does the name Macrine mean?
Macrine means "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania.". The name comes from măcĕr > Macra. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Macrine for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Macrine's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS) / HISTORY (KINGS / SOVEREIGN), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Macrine?
Macrine is a latin name. The name traces back to măcĕr > Macra. The name remains closely tied to french naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Macrine a boy or girl name?
Macrine is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Macrine has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Macrine?
Macrine is pronounced "/məˈkraɪn/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Macrine is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Macrine can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Macrine?
Macrine is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Macrine offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Macrine's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Macrine holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Macrine commonly used?
Macrine is used primarily in french naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Macrine found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Macrine into their naming traditions. A child named Macrine 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, Macrine is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Macrine?
Macrine carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS) / HISTORY (KINGS / SOVEREIGN). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “măcĕr > macra,” meaning “skinny, thin, gaunt (of land) arid (figuratively) sad, distressed.” 1) Saint Macrina, the younger was a saint and one of the most prominent nuns of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Saint Macrina, the elder, was the mother of Saint Basil, the elder, and the grandmother of Basil the Great, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Peter of Sebaste, and Saint Macrina the younger. 2) Macrinus (~165–218) was a Roman Emperor. He reigned jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. Macrinus was by origin a Berber from Mauretania Caesariensis. A member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and was the first emperor from Mauretania." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Macrine originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Macrine sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Macrine often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In french communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.