ENGLISH
REFERENCE

mckenzie

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //məˈkɛnzi// mcken·zie

n. a common family name from Scotland. It is also used as a first name for both boys and girls.

n. a surname of Scottish Gaelic origin, meaning 'son of Coinneach' (fair one). Often used as a given name in modern English-speaking contexts.


SIMPLE

McKenzie is a very common surname in Scotland.

CONTEXTUAL

The professor introduced Dr. McKenzie as the lead researcher on the new environmental project.

COMPLEX

While historically a patronymic surname associated with the Highlands, McKenzie has gained significant popularity as a unisex given name across North America over the last few decades.

Usage

When used as a proper noun, it is always capitalized.

© 2026 English Reference