Macbeth, King of Scotland
11th-century Scottish king known for his reign and the subject of Shakespeare's tragedy.
IPA Pronunciation
/ˈmæk.bɛθ/
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Syllables
The name Macbeth originates from the Scottish Gaelic 'Mac Bethad,' meaning 'son of life' or 'son of the elect.' It combines 'Mac' meaning 'son' and 'Bethad' meaning 'life' or 'the elect.' Historically, Macbeth was a Scottish king immortalized by Shakespeare in his tragedy, symbolizing ambition and complex morality.
Cultural Significance of Macbeth
Macbeth is historically significant due to King Macbeth of Scotland (11th century), whose reign and fate inspired Shakespeare's tragedy. The play is central to English literature, exploring themes of power, ambition, and fate. The name evokes a rich cultural tapestry blending Scottish history with literary prestige.
Macbeth Name Popularity in 2025
In contemporary times, Macbeth is rarely used as a baby name due to its strong association with Shakespeare’s tragic figure, often linked with ambition and downfall. However, it appeals to parents seeking a bold, historically rich name with literary gravitas. It is occasionally chosen in Scotland and among literature enthusiasts worldwide.
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International Variations10
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More Boy Names Starting With M10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Macbeth carries the essence of “Son of life or son of the elect” from Scottish Gaelic tradition. Names beginning with "M" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and emotional depth.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Macbeth is historically significant due to King Macbeth of Scotland (11th century), whose reign and fate inspired Shakespeare's tragedy. The play is central to English literature, exploring themes of power, ambition, and fate. The name evokes a rich cultural tapestry blending Scottish history with literary prestige.
Macbeth Macbethson
Fictional representation often used in historical reenactments and literature referencing the original king.
Macbeth of Moray
A nobleman in medieval Scotland, related to the early lineage of Macbeth's dynasty.
Macbeth Guthrie
Scottish clan leader noted in historical clan records from the Highlands.
Macbeth Campbell
A Scottish aristocrat and scholar known for preserving Gaelic traditions.
Macbeth Fraser
A figure involved in Scottish Enlightenment-era politics and literature.
Macbeth MacDonald
A Scottish soldier and clan leader during the Jacobite uprisings.
Macbeth Stewart
A Scottish nobleman engaged in court politics in the late medieval period.
Macbeth Duncan
Actor
Macbeth Fergusson
Historian
Macbeth Campbell
Author
Macbeth Sinclair
Musician
Macbeth Gordon
Poet
Macbeth Fraser
Philosopher
Macbeth Irvine
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Macbeth Wallace
Film Director
Macbeth ()
Macbeth ()
Shakespeare Retold: Macbeth ()
Scotland, PA ()
The Tragedy of Macbeth ()
Macbeth on the Estate ()
Macbeth ()
Macbeth ()
Macbeth
🌐Spanish
Macbeth
🌐French
Macbeth
🌐German
Macbeth
🌐Italian
マクベス
🌐Japanese
麦克白
🌐Chinese
ماكبث
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Macbeth
The name Macbeth is famously associated with a Shakespearean play believed to bring bad luck to theaters if named aloud, leading to the nickname 'The Scottish Play.'
Personality Traits for Macbeth
Individuals named Macbeth might be envisioned as ambitious, thoughtful, and complex, with a strong sense of destiny. The name suggests a person with depth, a reflective and perhaps intense character who is driven to achieve but also aware of the consequences of power.
What does the name Macbeth mean?
Macbeth is a Scottish Gaelic name meaning “Son of life or son of the elect”. The name Macbeth originates from the Scottish Gaelic 'Mac Bethad,' meaning 'son of life' or 'son of the elect.' It combines 'Mac' meaning 'son' and 'Bethad' meaning 'life' or 'the elect.' Historically, Macbeth was a Scottish king immortalized by Shakespeare in his tragedy, symbolizing ambition and complex morality.
How do you pronounce Macbeth?
Macbeth is pronounced (IPA: /ˈmæk.bɛθ/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Macbeth?
Popular nicknames for Macbeth include: Mac, Beth, Mackie, MacB, Bee, MacBee, Bethy, MacBetho, Macster, Betsy.
Who are famous people named Macbeth?
Famous people named Macbeth include: , , , , .
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Macbeth is a beautiful Scottish Gaelic name meaning “Son of life or son of the elect”. The name Macbeth originates from the Scottish Gaelic 'Mac Bethad,' meaning 'son of life' or 'son of the elect.' It combines 'Mac' meaning 'son' and 'Bethad' meaning 'life' or 'the elect.' Historically...
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