The name Mac originated as a prefix added to surnames in Scotland, derived from the Gaelic "mac" meaning "son". It emerged as a standalone first name in the late 19th century, gaining popularity in the early 20th century.

Mac traces its roots to the medieval Scottish Gaelic language, where "mac" was a common patronymic prefix used before a father's name or surname. It signified a familial relationship, denoting "son of". This practice was widespread among Scottish and Irish families, reflecting the cultural importance of lineage and clan affiliations.

The earliest recorded instances of Mac as a first name can be found in historical documents and records from the late 1800s. One of the earliest known individuals with the first name Mac was Mac Stevenson, born in Scotland in 1875. Another early bearer of the name was Mac Forrester, an American baseball player who played in the late 19th century.

As the 20th century progressed, Mac gained traction as a distinct first name, particularly in the United States and other English-speaking countries. Notable figures with the first name Mac include Mac Rebennack, better known as Dr. John, an American singer-songwriter and pianist born in 1940. Mac Davis, an American singer-songwriter and actor born in 1942, was another prominent bearer of the name.

In the field of literature, Mac Hyman was an American author and journalist born in 1923, known for his work on crime fiction and journalism. Mac Lesgill, born in 1901, was a British author and screenwriter who contributed to several notable films and television series.

Mac also found its way into the world of sports, with Mac Jones, an American football quarterback for the New England Patriots, being a contemporary example. Born in 1998, Jones has made a name for himself in the National Football League (NFL).

Throughout its history, the name Mac has carried a sense of Scottish heritage and cultural significance, reflecting its origins as a patronymic prefix. While initially a surname component, it has evolved into a distinct first name, embraced by individuals from various backgrounds and cultures.