The name Mckenzie has its origins in the Scottish Gaelic language and can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It derives from the Gaelic words "mac" meaning "son" and "cuinn" meaning "fair" or "bright." The name was initially a patronymic surname, referring to a son of someone named Cuinn.

In the 12th century, the name appeared in the form of "Makennedy" in Scotland. Over time, it evolved into various spellings such as Mckennedy, Makkenzy, and eventually, Mckenzie. The name was particularly prevalent among Scottish clans, especially the Clan Mackenzie, which had a significant presence in the Scottish Highlands.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Mckenzie can be found in the 14th century, when Kenneth Mckenzie (c. 1350-1418) was a prominent Scottish nobleman and chief of the Clan Mackenzie. He played a crucial role in the Battle of Harlaw in 1411, where he led his clan against the forces of Lord Donald of the Isles.

Another notable bearer of the name was Sir George Mckenzie (1636-1691), a Scottish lawyer, writer, and advocate. He served as Lord Advocate of Scotland and was a prominent figure in the legal and political spheres of his time.

In the realm of literature, Mckenzie Porter (1853-1920) was an American novelist and short story writer known for her works depicting life in the American South during the late 19th century.

The name Mckenzie also gained recognition in the field of sports. Mckenzie Milton (born 1997) is an American football quarterback who played for the University of Central Florida and was drafted by the St. Louis Battlehawks in the 2020 XFL Draft.

Another notable figure was Mckenzie Wark (born 1961), an Australian scholar, writer, and theorist known for his work in media studies, critical theory, and cultural studies.

While the name Mckenzie has Scottish roots, it has gained popularity worldwide and is now used across various cultures and regions. However, it remains closely associated with its Scottish heritage and the rich history of the Clan Mackenzie.