The earliest known human presence in Scotland dates back to around 12,000 years ago, during the Mesolithic period, but it wasn’t until the Iron Age (around 700 BC) that Celtic tribes settled in the area.
The Picts, for example, were an ancient people who lived in what is now Scotland. And while the Pictish language is largely lost, many Scottish names that are still used to this day have Pictish origins.
The Romans invaded around the first century AD, but Gaelic-speaking settlers from Ireland arrived more than 400 years later and established the kingdom of Dál Riata on the west coast of what is now Scotland.
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By the 9th century, Viking invasions and internal conflicts led to the gradual unification of the Picts and the Gaels around 843 AD – eventually forming the Kingdom of Alba, which later became known as Scotland.
Scotland remained a separate kingdom until 1707, when the Act of Union created the Kingdom of Great Britain – officially merging the Scottish and English parliaments under one roof (now known as the UK).
It’s through this history that Scottish names not only originated, but evolved – drawing influences from its rich past, including the Picts, Romans, Norse Vikings, Anglo-Saxons, Normans, Celts, British, and more.
Scottish Names With Scottish Origins: Baby Boy Edition
If you’re seeking a name that carries a rich history with cultural depth and a touch of mystique, Scottish names could be just the type of name you’re looking for – and they offer a treasure trove of possibilities.
From the rugged Highlands to the enchanting lochs, Scotland’s landscape and heritage have inspired a world of unique and distinctive Scottish names that resonate with strength, beauty, and timeless appeal.
Whether you have Scottish roots or simply appreciate the lyrical quality of Scottish names, we’re going to highlight 10 of our favorite Scottish names with Scottish origins for those who are about to welcome a boy.
Let’s get started!
10. Finlay
Origin: Scottish, Irish
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic name “Fionnlagh,” which is composed of two elements: “fionn” meaning “white” or “fair,” and “laogh” meaning “warrior” or “hero.”
Meaning: Fair-Haired Hero, White Warrior
9. Callum
Origin: Scottish
Derivation: derived from the Latin name “Columba,” which means “dove.”
Meaning: Dove
8. Brodie
Origin: Scottish
Derivation: derived from a place name in Scotland. It is believed to come from the Gaelic word “brothaigh,” meaning “ditch” or “muddy place.”
Meaning: Little Ridge, Muddy Place
7. Balfour
Origin: Scottish
Derivation: derived from a place name in Scotland. It comes from the Gaelic elements “baile,” meaning “village” or “farmstead,” and “fuara,” meaning “cold” or “cold stream.”
Meaning: Cold Village, Cold Stream, Cold Farmstead
6. Duff
Origin: Scottish, Irish
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic name “Dubh,” which means “dark” or “black.”
Meaning: Dark, Black
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5. Gavin
Origin: Welsh, Scottish
Derivation: derived from the medieval name “Gawain,” which is of Welsh origin. It combines elements of the Welsh words “Gwalch,” meaning “hawk,” and “gwyn,” meaning “white” or “fair.”
Meaning: White Hawk, Little Hawk
4. Gilchrist
Origin: Scottish, Irish
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic “Gille Crìosd,” which translates to “servant of Christ.” It combines the Gaelic elements “gille,” meaning “servant” or “follower,” and “Crìosd,” meaning “Christ.”
Meaning: Servant of Christ, Follower of Christ
3. Gilroy
Origin: Scottish, Irish
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic “Mac Giolla Ruaidh” in Irish or “Mac Gille Ruaidh” in Scottish Gaelic. It combines the elements “Mac,” meaning “son of,” “Giolla” or “Gille,” meaning “servant” or “follower,” and “Ruaidh,” meaning “red-haired.”
Meaning: Son of the Red-Haired Servant
2. Hamish
Origin: Scottish
Derivation: Anglicized form of the Gaelic name “Seumas,” which is the Scottish form of James. It is derived from the Hebrew name “Yaakov” (Jacob), which means “supplanter” or “holder of the heel.”
Meaning: Supplanter
1. Lennox
Origin: Scottish
Derivation: derived from a Scottish place name, specifically the district of Lennox (now known as the Lennox area around Loch Lomond in Scotland). The name itself is derived from the Gaelic “Leamhnach,” meaning “place of elms.”
Meaning: Place of Elms, With Many Elm Trees
Scottish Names With Scottish Origins: Baby Girl Edition
If you’re drawn to names that exude elegance, charm, and a deep cultural resonance for your soon-to-be baby girl, Scottish names are a delightful choice that your daughter can proudly wear as she grows up.
They’re unique enough that they likely won’t encounter a lot of other children with their name, but recognizable enough that most people won’t have a hard time saying, pronouncing or spelling them.
And while selecting a name for your baby girl is a deeply personal decision, Scottish names offer a wide array of choices that can resonate with your family’s values, beliefs, aspirations, and so much more.
With that said, here are some of our favorite girl-inspired Scottish names with Scottish origins.
10. Isla
Origin: Scottish
Derivation: derived from the Scottish island of Islay, which is part of the Inner Hebrides. It is also associated with the Scottish River Isla, which flows through Perthshire and Angus.
Meaning: Island
9. Eilidh
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic name “Eilidh,” which is often considered a diminutive or pet form of “Eleanor” or “Helen.” These names have Greek origins, where “Helen” means “light” or “torch.”
Meaning: Light, Radiant One
8. Maisie
Origin: Scottish, English
Derivation: diminutive form of the name “Margaret,” which comes from the Greek word “margaritēs,” meaning “pearl.” Maisie evolved from the Scottish pet name for Margaret, “Maisy.”
Meaning: Pearl
7. Morag
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic “Mòr,” meaning “great” or “large,” with the diminutive suffix “-ag” added to create a sense of endearment. It is often considered the Gaelic equivalent of the name “Sarah,” which means “princess” in Hebrew.
Meaning: Great, Sun, Princess
6. Bradana
Origin: Irish Gaelic, Scottish Gaelic
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic word “bradán,” which means “salmon.”
Meaning: Salmon
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5. Cairistiona
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Derivation: Gaelic form of the name “Christina.” It is derived from the Latin name “Christianus,” which means “follower of Christ” or “Christian.”
Meaning: Follower of Christ, Christian
4. Davina
Origin: Scottish, Hebrew
Derivation: feminine form of the name David. David is derived from the Hebrew name “Dawid,” which means “beloved.”
Meaning: Beloved, Friend
3. Deoiridh
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Derivation: derived from the Gaelic word “deòradh,” which means “pilgrim” or “wanderer.”
Meaning: Pilgrim, Wanderer
2. Elspeth
Origin: Scottish
Derivation: Scottish form of the name “Elizabeth.” Elizabeth is derived from the Hebrew name “Elisheva,” which means “God is my oath” or “pledged to God.”
Meaning: God Is My Oath
1. Gavenia
Origin: Welsh, Scottish
Derivation: derived from the name “Gavin,” which comes from the medieval name “Gawain.” Gawain is of Welsh origin, combining elements of the Welsh words “Gwalch,” meaning “hawk,” and “gwyn,” meaning “white” or “fair.”
Meaning: White Hawk, Fair Hawk
Scottish Names Inspired by Scottish Monarchs
From the early medieval period to the union with England in the early 18th century, Scottish monarchs and other key Scottish figures played a central role in the nation’s political, cultural, and social evolution.
These monarchs navigated a complex landscape of internal clan rivalries, external threats, and alliances – leaving an indelible mark on Scotland’s trajectory and helping to make it the country that it is today.
And while the Act of Union in 1707 marked the end of the independent Scottish monarchy, the legacies of Scottish monarchs continue to influence the country’s sense of identity, heritage, culture, and beliefs.
With that said, here are 20 Scottish names inspired by some of the most prominent Scottish monarchs.
20. Cuilén
Origin: Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Old Irish “Cuilén,” which is a diminutive form of “cuil,” meaning “whelp” or “puppy.”
Historical Significance: Cuilén, also known as Cuilén mac Illuilb, was a Scottish king who reigned from 967 to 971 AD. He was a member of the House of Alpin and the son of King Illulb (Indulf). Cuilén’s reign was marked by internal strife and conflicts with rival clans.
19. Constantine
Origin: Latin
Meaning: derived from the Latin name “Constantinus,” which comes from “constans,” meaning “constant” or “steadfast.”
Historical Significance: Constantine I, also known as Constantine mac Áed, was a Scottish king who reigned from 862 to 877 AD. He was the son of King Kenneth MacAlpin, the founder of the unified Kingdom of Scotland. His reign is significant for his efforts to defend his kingdom against Viking invasions.
18. Kenneth
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Gaelic “Cináed” or “Coinneach,” meaning “born of fire” or “handsome.”
Historical Significance: Kenneth I, also known as Kenneth MacAlpin, reigned from 843 to 858 AD and is often regarded as the first king of a unified Scotland. He was the king of the Picts and Scots, successfully merging these two groups to form the Kingdom of Alba.
17. Macbeth
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Gaelic “Mac Bethad,” meaning “son of life.”
Historical Significance: Macbeth, known from the play by Shakespeare, was a historical king of Scotland who reigned from 1040 to 1057 AD. He ascended to the throne after defeating King Duncan I in battle. Macbeth’s reign was relatively effective, and he made a pilgrimage to Rome in 1050. His rule ended when he was defeated by Malcolm III.
16. Lulach
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Gaelic “Lulach,” meaning uncertain but possibly related to “Lula,” meaning “little.”
Historical Significance: Lulach, also known as Lulach the Simple or Lulach the Fool, was the stepson of Macbeth and reigned briefly as King of Scotland from 1057 to 1058 AD. His reign was short and turbulent, ending with his assassination by Malcolm III. Lulach is often seen as a puppet king, with little real power or influence.
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15. Donald
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Gaelic “Domhnall,” meaning “world ruler.”
Historical Significance: Donald III, also known as Donald Bane, reigned twice as King of Scotland, first from 1093 to 1094 and again from 1094 to 1097 AD. He was the son of King Duncan I and came to power after the death of Malcolm III. Donald’s reigns were marked by struggles for the throne, and he was eventually deposed by his nephew, Edgar.
14. Duncan
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Gaelic “Donnchadh,” meaning “brown warrior” or “chief.”
Historical Significance: Duncan I, who reigned from 1034 to 1040 AD, was the king of Scotland known for his unfortunate fate at the hands of Macbeth. He ascended to the throne after the death of Malcolm II and was known for his attempts to expand his kingdom. Duncan’s reign ended when he was killed in battle by Macbeth.
13. Edgar
Origin: Old English
Meaning: derived from the Old English elements “ead,” meaning “wealth” or “fortune,” and “gar,” meaning “spear.”
Historical Significance: Edgar, who reigned from 1097 to 1107 AD, was the son of Malcolm III and Margaret of Wessex. His reign is notable for the stabilization of the Scottish monarchy after years of internal strife. Edgar maintained good relations with England and focused on consolidating his power within Scotland.
12. Malcolm
Origin: Scottish Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Gaelic “Máel Coluim,” meaning “devotee of Saint Columba.”
Historical Significance: Malcolm III, also known as Malcolm Canmore, reigned from 1058 to 1093 AD. He came to power after defeating Lulach and is remembered for his efforts to restore stability following the turbulent reigns of Macbeth and Lulach.
11. Alexander
Origin: Greek
Meaning: derived from the Greek name “Alexandros,” which combines “alexein,” meaning “to defend,” and “aner,” meaning “man.”
Historical Significance: Alexander I, who reigned from 1107 to 1124 AD, was the son of Malcolm III and Margaret of Wessex. His reign is significant for his efforts to reform the Scottish church and consolidate royal authority. Alexander faced internal rebellions and worked to strengthen the central government.
10. Margaret
Origin: Greek
Meaning: derived from the Greek word “margaritēs,” meaning “pearl.”
Historical Significance: Saint Margaret of Scotland (c. 1045–1093) was an English princess and the wife of Malcolm III of Scotland. She is renowned for her piety, charity, and efforts to reform the Scottish church. Margaret played a crucial role in aligning the Scottish church with Roman practices and was canonized as a saint in 1250.
9. John
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: derived from the Hebrew name “Yochanan,” meaning “Yahweh is gracious.”
Historical Significance: John Balliol, who reigned from 1292 to 1296, was placed on the Scottish throne by King Edward I of England. His reign was marked by his struggles to assert independence from English influence. John’s weak rule and subsequent abdication in 1296 led to the Wars of Scottish Independence.
8. David
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: derived from the Hebrew name “Dawid,” which means “beloved.”
Historical Significance: David I, who reigned from 1124 to 1153, was a transformative figure in Scottish history. He introduced feudalism, established burghs (towns), and reformed the Scottish church, laying the foundations for a more centralized and structured kingdom.
7. Edward
Origin: Old English
Meaning: derived from the Old English elements “ēad,” meaning “wealth” or “fortune,” and “weard,” meaning “guardian” or “protector.”
Historical Significance: Edward Balliol, the son of John Balliol, claimed the Scottish throne with English support and ruled intermittently between 1332 and 1356. His reign was characterized by civil war and conflict with supporters of Robert the Bruce’s son, David II.
6. Robert
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: derived from the Old German elements “hrod,” meaning “fame” or “glory,” and “beraht,” meaning “bright.”
Historical Significance: Robert the Bruce, who reigned from 1306 to 1329, is one of Scotland’s most celebrated kings. He led Scotland during the First War of Scottish Independence against England, famously defeating Edward II at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. His reign established a strong and independent Scotland, culminating in the Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton in 1328, which recognized Scottish independence.
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5. Charles
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: derived from the Germanic name “Karl,” meaning “free man” or “man.”
Historical Significance: Charles I was the king of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1625 until his execution in 1649. His attempts to enforce religious uniformity and his conflicts with Parliament led to the English Civil War. Charles’ reign ended with his trial and execution, profoundly impacting the monarchy and leading to a brief period of republican rule under Oliver Cromwell.
4. James
Origin: Hebew
Meaning: derived from the Hebrew name “Yaakov” (Jacob), meaning “supplanter” or “holder of the heel.”
Historical Significance: James VI of Scotland (1567–1625) also became James I of England and Ireland in 1603, uniting the crowns of Scotland and England. His reign saw the beginning of the Stuart era in England. James promoted the idea of a united Britain and faced religious and political challenges.
3. Mary
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: derived from the Hebrew name “Miryam,” which has various interpretations including “bitter,” “beloved,” or “wished-for child.”
Historical Significance: Mary, Queen of Scots, reigned over Scotland from 1542 to 1567. Her tumultuous reign included her marriage controversies, imprisonment, and forced abdication in favor of her son, James VI. She was executed in 1587 by her cousin, Elizabeth I of England, for her involvement in plots against the English throne.
2. William
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: derived from the Germanic elements “wil,” meaning “will” or “desire,” and “helm,” meaning “helmet” or “protection.”
Historical Significance: William the Lion, who reigned from 1165 to 1214, is known for his efforts to assert Scottish independence against English influence. Captured by the English in 1174, he was forced to acknowledge Henry II as his overlord but later regained independence for Scotland.
1. Anne
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: derived from the Hebrew name “Hannah,” meaning “grace” or “favor.”
Historical Significance: Queen Anne reigned from 1702 to 1714 and was the last monarch of the House of Stuart. Her reign saw the union of the English and Scottish parliaments in 1707, creating the Kingdom of Great Britain. Anne’s rule also witnessed the War of the Spanish Succession and significant developments in British politics.
Scottish Names Inspired by Famous Scottish People
Throughout history, we’ve seen a fair share of famous Scots make a name for themselves – not just in their own country, but internationally. As a result, their names have grown in popularity around the world.
Who knows – maybe your own son or daughter will be the next one to bear one of their names.
Scottish names not only commemorate the achievements of some of the most renowned Scots, but they also preserve the vibrant history and traditions of Scotland for future generationsto be inspired by.
With that said, choosing a Scottish name for your baby boy or girl is a way of honoring the past while embracing the qualities that continue to inspire and shape the nation today – thousands of years later.
If that sounds like something you’re interested in, here are 10 Scottish names inspired by famous Scots.
10. Sean
Origin: Irish
Meaning: derived from the Irish name “Seán,” which is the Gaelic form of “John.” John is derived from the Hebrew name “Yochanan,” meaning “Yahweh is gracious.”
Who Is Sean Connery? Sir Sean Connery (1930-2020) was a Scottish actor and producer, best known for being the first actor to portray James Bond in film, starring in seven Bond films from 1962 to 1983. Connery’s career spanned several decades, and he won an Academy Award for his role in “The Untouchables.”
9. Gerard
Origin: Germanic
Meaning: derived from the Germanic elements “ger,” meaning “spear,” and “hard,” meaning “brave” or “hardy.”
Who Is Gerard Butler? Gerard Butler is a Scottish actor and film producer, born on November 13, 1969. He is best known for his roles in movies like “300,” “P.S. I Love You,” “Olympus Has Fallen,” and “The Phantom of the Opera.”
8. Calvin
Origin: French, Latin
Meaning: derived from the French surname “Cauvin,” which comes from the Latin “calvinus,” meaning “bald” or “hairless.”
Who Is Calvin Harris? Calvin Harris, born Adam Richard Wiles on January 17, 1984, is a Scottish DJ, record producer, singer, and songwriter. He is known for his contributions to electronic dance music (EDM) and has produced numerous hit singles such as “We Found Love,” “Summer,” and “Feels.”
7. Ewan
Origin: Scottish, Irish
Meaning: derived from the Gaelic name “Eòghan,” meaning “born of the yew tree” or “youth.”
Who Is Ewan McGregor? Ewan McGregor is a Scottish actor, born on March 31, 1971. He gained fame with roles in films like “Trainspotting,” “Moulin Rouge!,” and “Star Wars” prequel trilogy as Obi-Wan Kenobi.
6. Craig
Origin: Scottish, Gaelic
Meaning: derived from the Scottish Gaelic word “creag,” meaning “rock” or “crag.”
Who Is Craig Ferguson? Craig Ferguson is a Scottish-American comedian, actor, writer, and television host, born on May 17, 1962. He is best known for hosting “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson” from 2005 to 2014.
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5. Shirley
Origin: Old English
Meaning: derived from the Old English elements “scīr,” meaning “bright” or “shire,” and “lēah,” meaning “wood” or “clearing.”
Who Is Shirley Manson? Shirley Manson is a Scottish singer, songwriter, and actress, born on August 26, 1966. She is best known as the lead vocalist of the alternative rock band Garbage, which gained international fame in the 1990s with hits like “Stupid Girl” and “Only Happy When It Rains.”
4. Graham
Origin: Scottish
Meaning: derived from the Scottish surname, which originates from the Old English place name “Grantham,” meaning “gravelly homestead.”
Who Is Alexander Graham Bell? Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922) was a Scottish-born inventor, scientist, and teacher of the deaf. He is best known for inventing the telephone in 1876. Bell’s work extended beyond telecommunications; he also made significant contributions to aviation and hydrofoils.
3. Maxwell
Origin: Scottish
Meaning: derived from the place name “Maccus’ Wael,” which means “Maccus’ stream” in Old English.
Who Is James Clerk Maxwell? James Clerk Maxwell (1831-1879) was a Scottish physicist and mathematician who made significant contributions to the field of electromagnetic theory. He is best known for formulating Maxwell’s equations, which describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields.
2. Alex
Origin: Greek
Meaning: short form of Alexander, derived from the Greek name “Alexandros,” which combines “alexein,” meaning “to defend,” and “aner,” meaning “man.”
Who Is Alex Ferguson? Sir Alex Ferguson is a retired Scottish football manager and player, best known for his tenure as the manager of Manchester United from 1986 to 2013. Under his leadership, the club won numerous trophies, including 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups, and 2 UEFA Champions League titles.
1. Catrionna
Origin: Scottish, Irish Gaelic
Meaning: Gaelic form of the name Katherine, derived from the Greek name “Aikaterine.” The exact meaning is debated, but it is often associated with “pure.”
Who Is Catrionna Matthew? Catriona Matthew is a professional golfer from Scotland, born on August 25, 1969. She has had a successful career on the Ladies European Tour (LET) and the LPGA Tour. Matthew is known for her consistency and has achieved multiple victories, including a major championship win at the 2009 Ricoh Women’s British Open.
Do You Like Any of These Scottish Names for Your Wee One?
A name is the first gift you give your child – other than life itself. It’s something that’ll remain a core part of their identity throughout their life and will help separate them as unique, distinct, and special individuals.
In other words, it’s something you’ll want to take your time with as you search for the perfect name.
Whether you are drawn to traditional names, modern trends, or something uniquely personal, finding the perfect name for your baby boy or girl is a cherished part of welcoming your new addition to the family.
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With that said, we wish you all the best as you sift through the thousands of Scottish names available to you. And if you need some more unique baby name ideas, don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog!