Scottish Girl Names
By Dixie Legare – August 28, 2024
When envisioning the charm of Scottish girl names, one might think of scenic coastlines, towering mountains, and vibrant valleys.
Scotland’s natural beauty, along with its rich culture, folklore, and history, makes its names stand out.
These elements are visible in the diverse range of Scottish names for women.
Scotland offers an array of names, from common and traditional to unique and rare choices.
Each name carries its own special meaning, reflecting the beauty and strength of the country.
The list to follow showcases nearly 200 options, highlighting the charm and significance of Scottish girl names.
Popular and Common Scottish Girl Names
Amelia
Amelia is a widely loved name in Scotland. It means “work” and has roots in Germanic languages.
This name is also the feminine form of the Roman family name Aemilius, which comes from the Latin word aemulus meaning “rival.”
Ava
Ava has Germanic origins, and it means “like a bird.” This name is fitting for a girl with a free spirit.
Ava is also a variant of the name Avis and enjoys popularity in Scotland.
Daisy
Daisy is a charming name of English origin, meaning “day’s eye.”
The name refers to the flower that opens with the sun and closes at dusk. It’s a popular choice for a baby girl in Scotland with a touch of American charm.
Emily
Emily is a name with global appeal. Its Latin roots give it the meaning “rival” or “rivaling.”
Just like Amelia, Emily comes from the feminine form of the Roman family name Aemilius.
Emma
Emma has Germanic origins, meaning “whole” or “universal.”
This makes it a sweet and simple option for a baby girl. It is different from Emily despite their similar sounds.
Isla
Isla is unique among popular Scottish girl names due to its Scottish Gaelic origins.
Pronounced EYE-la, it means “island” and is linked to Islay, an island off the west coast of Scotland.
Katie
Katie is a classic name that has had a resurgence in Scotland since the 1980s.
It is a nickname for Katherine, which has Greek origins and means “pure” and “clear.”
Lucy
Lucy is a cute and popular name in Scotland. From Latin, it means “light.”
Lucy is the English form of Lucia and makes a charming nickname.
Olivia
Olivia is a name that seems to be everywhere these days, and it’s growing in popularity in Scotland.
It has Latin roots, meaning “olive tree.” The name is also famous due to characters in literature and modern media.
Sophie
Sophie has French roots and means “wisdom.”
It is related to the Greek name Sophia and is a great choice for those interested in names with a touch of French elegance.
Unique and Uncommon Scottish Girl Names
Ailsa
Ailsa is a special name with Scottish roots, pronounced AYL-sa. It means “from the island of Alfsigr.”
The name connects to the island of Ailsa Craig in Scotland, deriving from the Old Norse name Alfsigesey, which means “Alvaldi’s island.”
Caitlin
While Caitlin is often considered an Irish name, it is actually a variant of Katherine and means “pure” or “clear.”
This classic name still holds a unique charm when chosen for a Scottish baby girl.
Eilidh
Eilidh, pronounced EH-lee, is a beautiful Scottish Gaelic name meaning “from the island.”
It is a variant of Eilís, the Scottish form of the Irish name Ailís, adding a unique twist to a traditional name.
Eilish
Pronounced EYE-lish, Eilish is another variation of Eilís.
It draws from the Irish Gaelic versions of Elizabeth and Alice, meaning “my God is an oath” or “noble type.” Eilish is also notably shared by the famous singer Billie Eilish.
Fionnuala
Fionnuala, pronounced fin-OO-la, is a distinctive name of Irish origin. It signifies “fair, white” or “bright stranger.”
This name offers a unique and ancient option for Scottish girls.
Freya
Freya, with Norse origins, is a lovely choice meaning “lady.”
It refers to the goddess of love, fertility, and war in Norse mythology. While growing in popularity, it maintains a unique charm.
Màiri
Màiri, pronounced MAY-ryi, is a Scottish variant of Mary. It means “beloved” and comes from the Hebrew name Miryam.
It adds a Scottish flair to a well-loved biblical name.
Moira
Moira is pronounced MOY-ra and means “star of the sea.”
Although it retains a different meaning, it is also a variant of Mary and is derived from Miryam.
Morven
Morven, pronounced MAWR-vehn, provides a truly uncommon name originating from Scotland.
It means “big gap” or “big mountain” and is the name of a hill and region in western Scotland, tied to Pict mythology.
Sorcha
Sorcha is a superb option for those seeking an old medieval Scottish name.
This Scottish Gaelic name means “radiant, bright,” and is sometimes anglicized as Sarah or Clara.
Traditional and Classic Scottish Girl Names
Athol
Athol is a traditional name linked to a district in Scotland. Stemming from the Scottish Gaelic word Athall, it means “new Ireland” and reflects a rich historical background.
Gormelia
Gormelia, the feminine form of Gormley, comes from the Old Irish Gormlaith. This name carries the meaning “illustrious ruler,” adding a sense of strength and leadership.
Kirsty
While Kirsty is known in the United States, its roots are Scottish. It originates from the Scottish name Kirstin, a variation of Christine, meaning “follower of Christ.”
Mòrag
Mòrag serves as a Scottish twist on a classic name. It’s both a variant of Margaret, meaning “pearl,” and a diminutive of Mòr, translating to “great” in Irish. In English, it can be Sarah or Marion.
Niamh
This name, pronounced NYEEV, is popular in Scotland and means “bright.”
Niamh stems from Irish mythology, where she was the daughter of the sea god Manannán mac Lir.
Orla
Orla, derived from the Irish Orlaith, is a charming name meaning “golden princess.”
It showcases the close ties between Scottish and Irish cultures.
Senga
Senga is a unique name that is also a palindrome and an anagram of Agnes.
In Gaelic, it translates to “fair one” or “slender,” providing a distinctive yet classic option.
Sheena
Sheena is the anglicized form of Sìne, which is a variation of Jane. This name means “God is gracious,” tying in a sense of divine favor.
Teàrlag
Pronounced TYEH-ar-lekh, Teàrlag originates from the Old Irish Tairdelbach, meaning “instigator.”
Historically, it was used by many medieval Irish kings.
Wilma
Wilma is a cute and traditional name that is a form of Wilhelmina, translating to “determined protector,” perfect for parents looking for a strong yet endearing name.
Adorable Scottish Girl Names
Ailis
This charming name is the Scottish Gaelic variant of Alice, pronounced AY-lish.
Originating from the Old French name Alice, it ultimately comes from the Germanic name Adelaide, which means “noble.”
Aberdeen
For a name that strongly ties to Scotland, Aberdeen is a wonderful choice.
This name is derived from a city in Scotland and means “mouth of the Don River” in Scottish Gaelic.
Effie
Effie is a delightful name that’s easy to love, pronounced EHF-ee.
It’s a diminutive of the Greek name Euphemia, meaning “to use words of good omen.”
Elspet
Elspet is a cute Scottish take on Elizabeth, pronounced EHLZ-peth.
Elizabeth has Hebrew origins and means “my God is an oath.” It has many variations across different cultures, including Isabelle and Lillian.
Fenella
Fenella is a sweet-sounding Scottish name that comes from Fionnuala, meaning “fair.”
Its unique spelling and lovely pronunciation make it a favorite.
Fiona
Pronounced fee-OH-na, this name shares the meaning “fair” with Fenella.
Fiona is the feminine form of the Old Irish name Fionn, which comes from the name Finn.
Maisie
Maisie offers a charming alternative to the more common name Margaret.
This Scottish form of Margaret means “pearl.”
Moyra
If you like the traditional Scottish name Moira but want a cuter spelling, Moyra is a great choice.
It also means “star of the sea,” adding a lovely dimension to its appeal.
Sheona
This name has a cute and melodic sound, pronounced SHEE-oh-na with an accent on the first syllable.
Sheona is a variant of Shona, meaning “Yahweh is gracious.”
Úna
Short and sweet, Úna is an ancient Scottish name meaning “lamb.”
Pronounced OO-neh, it’s perfect for your little one who is as gentle as a lamb.
Pretty and Beautiful Scottish Girl Names
Afton
Afton is a unisex name that has seen a rise in popularity recently.
It is either the name of a river in Scotland or translates to “evening.”
Ainsley
Popularized in the early 2000s by a character from The West Wing, Ainsley combines Old English elements to mean “solitary” or “hermitage” and “woodland clearing.”
Despite its newfound fame in the U.S., it remains a charming Scottish name.
Daviana
Daviana, derived from Davianna, is a rare find that stems from the name David, meaning “beloved.”
Its melodious sound makes it an appealing choice.
Eimhir
Pronounced EE-mehr, Eimhir is a stunning name from Irish mythology.
In myths, Emer (the Irish spelling) symbolized six gifts of womanhood, which included beauty and wisdom.
Flora
Flora is an anglicized version of Fenella and is a lovely name that means “flower.”
Its simplicity and elegance make it popular in Scotland and beyond.
Iseabail
This name offers a unique twist on Isabel. Pronounced EE-sha-bahl, Iseabail is the Scottish Gaelic form of Elizabeth, meaning “my God is an oath.”
Malina
Malina, the Scottish feminine form of Malcolm, means “dove” in Late Latin.
It’s a delicate and graceful name for a girl.
Marsaili
Marsaili, pronounced MAR-sa-lee, is a beautiful variant of Marcella.
Its roots trace back to an old family name linked to the Roman god Mars.
Neilina
Neilina is a lovely name pronounced NAY-lee-na.
It is the feminine form of Neil, derived from the Irish name Niall, which can mean “hero” or “cloud.”
Sìneag
Pronounced SHEE-nyak, Sìneag is a unique spelling for the Scottish Gaelic form of Sìne.
It’s a beautiful variant of Jane, which is connected to John and means “Yahweh is gracious.”
Cool Scottish Girl Names
Alba
Alba is a name you might recognize from different parts of the world.
It’s a cool choice for a Scottish girl’s name and traces back to the ancient Roman name Albus, meaning “bright.”
Arya
For Game of Thrones enthusiasts, Arya might be the coolest name around.
It’s grown in popularity throughout the UK and comes from an old Indo-Iranian root that means “noble.”
Deòiridh
Deòiridh is a traditional and interesting Scottish name.
It means “pilgrim,” referring to someone who travels. The name has a distinct sound and is pronounced TYAW-ryiy.
Islay
Islay puts a unique twist on the more popular name Isla.
Pronounced IE-leh, Islay means “island.” It’s a refreshing and cool spin on a classic name.
Kenna
Kenna is the feminine version of Kenneth and has been gaining traction in the United States.
This trendy name means “esteem, respect” and has deep Scottish roots.
Mhairi
If the name Mary feels a bit dated, consider its Scottish variant, Mhairi.
Pronounced VAR-ee, Mhairi means “beloved” and brings a cool edge to a classic name.
Mòr
Short and sweet, Mòr is another cool one-syllable name to consider.
It comes from the Irish word of the same spelling and means “great.”
Seònaid
Seònaid is a Scottish Gaelic girl’s name, pronounced SHAW-na, and is a form of Jane.
The name originates from John and means “Yahweh is gracious.”
Shona
Shona is also connected to the name John, similar to Seònaid, but it’s actually the Scottish form of Joan.
It also means “Yahweh is gracious,” offering a slightly different twist.
Skye
Inspired by the Isle of Skye in Scotland, this name also brings to mind images of the wide-open sky.
It’s a nature-inspired name that’s both simple and cool.
Strong Scottish Girl Names
Áedh
This powerful ancient Scottish name comes from an Old Irish variant of Áed.
Though it is more commonly a boy’s name, Áedh makes a strong choice for a girl as it means “fire.”
Aimil
Pronounced AY-mehl, this name is often anglicized to Amelia or Emily.
It originates from a Latin word meaning “rival.”
Brìghde
This Scottish Gaelic form of the Irish name Bridget means “the exalted one.”
It is pronounced BREE-dah.
Fionnghal
Derived from the mythological Irish name Fionnuala, this name belongs to one of the children turned into a swan for 900 years.
It is pronounced FYOON-vehl.
Grizel
The Scots form of Griselda, this name carries the robust meaning of “battle.”
Variants of this name are known from medieval folklore.
Maeve
Traditionally an Irish name, Maeve has become popular in Scotland recently.
Pronounced MAYV, it means “intoxicating” and was the name of an Irish warrior queen.
Murdag
This name is derived from a Scottish Gaelic moniker that means “sea battle.”
It is pronounced MEHR-dah.
Rhona
Though it might seem old-fashioned in the United States, Rhona is a strong Scottish name that means “tough island” in Old Norse.
Ronalda
Pronounced rah-NAWL-da, this is the Scottish feminine form of Ronald.
The name Ronald stands in Scotland for Ragnvaldr, an Old Norse name meaning “power of the gods” and “ruler.”
Tormod
A name with both Scottish and Norwegian roots, though more often used for boys in Norway.
Tormod means “Thor’s wrath,” referring to Thor, the god of storms, thunder, war, and strength.
Scottish Forms of Common Girl Names
Aileas
Aileas is one of the most common Scottish Gaelic forms of Alice.
It is pronounced ay-LEEZ and means “noble.”
Annag
Annag adds a Scottish touch to the name Anna.
Pronounced AN-ehg, it traces its roots to Hannah, meaning “favor, grace.”
Beitris
Beitris is the Scottish Gaelic version of Beatrice.
It means “voyager” or “traveler” and is pronounced BEY-treez.
Cairistìona
Cairistìona is a beautifully spelled Scottish form of Christina.
It’s pronounced kehr-ish-TEE-na and means “anointed.”
Caitríona
Caitríona, pronounced KA-tree-na, is a charming Scottish name that can also be found in Irish form.
It comes from Katherine, meaning “pure.”
Ealasaid
Ealasaid is a more traditional Scottish Gaelic name for Elizabeth.
It’s pronounced EHL-eh-seht and stands for “my God is an oath.”
Máiréad
Máiréad brings a classic feel to the name Margaret.
Pronounced MA-ryed, it continues the tradition found in both Scottish and Irish forms.
Ishbel
Ishbel mirrors the name Isabel both in spelling and pronunciation.
Isabel, a medieval form of Elizabeth, means “my God is an oath.”
Nandag
Nandag is another option for those who like the name Anna.
This variation is pronounced NAN-dehg and shares the meaning “favor, grace.”
Síne
Síne, pronounced SHEE-na, is the Irish interpretation of Jane.
It connects to John, carrying the meaning “Yahweh is gracious.”
Even More Scottish Girl Names
Ailsa
This name means “elf victory” and draws its origins from the rocky islet Ailsa Craig in the Firth of Clyde.
Eilidh
Eilidh translates to “sun” in Scottish Gaelic and is often used as a translation for Helen.
Morven
Morven is a name that means “big gap” or “child of the sea,” with roots tracing back to ancient Scotland.