The name Larae has its origins in the ancient Gaelic language, tracing back to the early medieval period in Ireland and Scotland around the 5th to 8th centuries AD. It is derived from the old Gaelic word "lair" which means "battleground" or "battlefield". The name was originally a descriptive name given to those born or residing near a significant battlefield or location of historic battle.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Larae can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history, where it mentions a warrior named Larae mac Tuathail who fought in the Battle of Clontarf in 1014 AD. This pivotal battle marked the end of the Viking Age in Ireland and the defeat of the Norse King Sigtrygg Silkbeard.

Another notable figure with the name Larae was Larae of Moray, a Scottish noblewoman who lived in the late 12th century AD. She was the wife of Gillecrist, Earl of Mar, and played a significant role in the political affairs of the Kingdom of Scotland during the reign of King William the Lion.

In the 13th century, a Franciscan friar named Larae of Cambrai gained recognition for his scholarly works and contributions to the development of scholastic theology. He was born in Cambrai, France, around 1220 AD and wrote several influential treatises on philosophy and theology.

During the Renaissance period, Larae Biancardi (1460-1524) was an Italian humanist scholar and professor of rhetoric at the University of Bologna. He was highly regarded for his teachings and writings on classical literature and rhetoric.

Another notable figure with the name Larae was Larae O'Malley (1530-1603), an Irish pirate queen and chieftain of the Ó Máille clan in the west of Ireland. She is remembered for her military exploits, strategic leadership, and defiance against English colonial rule in Ireland during the late 16th century.