Mag Raith is the Gaelic form of the anglicized surname McRae, meaning "son of Rath." The personal name Rath derives from a Gaelic word meaning "prosperity" or "grace." This surname is primarily found in Ireland and Scotland, where Gaelic naming traditions long persisted.EtymologyThe prefix Mag (lenited form of Mac) means "son of" in Gaelic, common in patronymic surnames in both Irish and Scottish contexts. The root Raith corresponds to the Old Irish rath, signifying "good fortune" or "grace." Thus Mag Raith literally denotes "son of the prosperous one" or "son of grace." Over time, anglicized forms such as McRae, McCrae, and MacRae emerged, along with the shortened variant Rae.Historical ContextThe MacRaes were a prominent clan in the Scottish Highlands, especially in Kintail and later in the Isle of Skye. They traditionally served as hereditary constables of the Clan MacRae and were known for their loyalty to the MacKenzies. The surname is also recorded in Ireland, where similar patronymics developed. However, Mag Raith itself is now rare as a Gaelic spelling, most commonly seen in records tracing etymology rather than as an active surname.Geographical DistributionData from Forebears indicates that the surname Mag Raith is extremely uncommon today, likely limited to historical records or occasional use in Ireland and Scotland. Most bearers of the name now use the Anglicised forms, particularly McRae and Rae, which have spread to other English-speaking countries.Meaning: Son of Rath (prosperity or grace)Origin: Gaelic (Irish and Scottish)Type: Patronymic surnameMain Regions: Ireland, Scotland