McRaney

McRaney is a surname of Gaelic origin. As a patronymic, it is typically interpreted as “son of Raney” or “son of Rainey,” with the prefix Mac- indicating lineage. The form McRaney reflects Anglicization patterns common in Ireland, Scotland, and later in North America.

Etymology and spelling variants are linked to Gaelic personal names that entered English spelling as Raney or Rainey. The Mac- prefix denotes descent, producing surnames such as MacRaney and McRaney. Over time, regional orthography and immigration experiences contributed to different renderings of the same original name.

Distribution and history indicate that McRaney appears primarily in English-speaking countries, with a noticeable presence in the United States. In North America, families bearing the name have been documented in the southern states, aligning with broader patterns of Scots-Irish and Irish settlement and migration.

Variants and related names include MacRaney, Rainey, and Raney. These forms share the same patronymic origin and may appear interchangeably in historical records depending on local spelling conventions, clerical choices, and evolving naming practices.

Notable people: A number of individuals with the surname McRaney have achieved recognition in various fields, including politics, sports, and the arts. As with many Gaelic-origin surnames, the name has spread through multiple generations and communities, contributing to its presence in contemporary records and genealogical studies.