Top 100 Scottish girl names

Today’s baby girl names from Scotland

What do creative professionals like actors Karen Gillan and Tilda Swinton, author J K Rowling (born Joanne Rowling) and Annie Lennox have in common? They were all born in Scotland!

If you’re drawn to Scotland, whether through lineage, the captivating landscapes of Outlander, or just love the lilt of beautiful Scottish names, the allure is understandable. (Want more ideas? Get the top Scottish baby names for boys here.)

Here’s a celebration of Scottish heritage through a curated list of baby girl names that echo the strength and creativity of Scotland’s renowned women:

• Ailsa: A rock-solid name from the Ailsa Craig island.
• Bonnie: Meaning “pretty” in Scots, it also recalls the old song “My Bonnie Lies over the Ocean.”
• Catriona: The Gaelic form of Catherine, shared with the bold Irish ‘Outlander’ actress, Caitríona Balfe.
• Davina: A feminine form of David, it evokes Scotland’s royal heritage.
• Eilidh: Pronounced ‘AY-lee,’ it’s the Scottish form of Helen, meaning ‘radiant, shining light.’
• Fiona: Meaning ‘white, fair,’ it has been popularized by figures like Fiona Bruce.
• Greer: A surname turned first name, it has a noble flair, made famous by classic movie actress Greer Garson.
• Iona: Named after a Scottish island, it’s serene and strong.
• Kenzie: A modern name derived from the Gaelic ‘Mackenzie.’
• Lorna: Popularized by the novel “Lorna Doone” published in 1869,  it has a romantic, literary charm.
• Morag: A traditional name meaning ‘great sun.’
• Nessa: Short for Agnes, it’s compact yet powerful.
• Paisley: After the Scottish town, it’s unique and increasingly trendy.
• Rhona: Meaning ‘mighty power,’ it reflects the strength of Scottish women.
• Skye: Named after the Isle of Skye, it captures the beauty of Scottish landscapes.
• Tamsin: Meaning ‘twin,’ it’s a variation of Thomasina — making it both unique and traditional.

These names, inspired by Scotland’s culture, landscapes, and notable women, offer a range of beautiful choices for your daughter. Each carries the spirit of the country — a blend of rugged beauty, artistic legacy, and the enduring strength of its people.

As you think of these as names for your little girl, remember that when we look back, the names of Scottish women are often as striking and memorable as their accomplishments.

In Scotland, there’s a wealth of beautiful names that have captured the hearts of parents. Here, explore some of the most popular and traditional Scottish girl names, where classics meet modernity, and nature’s influence is ever-present.

A touch of tradition

Olivia has reigned supreme for several years, a testament to its enduring appeal. It’s a name that exudes classic elegance and has literary roots that may attract you if you have an affinity for culture and history. Alongside Olivia, names like Emma and Sophia have remained beloved choices for their timeless grace.

Pop culture’s darlings

The impact of television and media is unmistakable in the naming trends. Maeve, for example, has risen in popularity, possibly due to strong characters in recent TV shows. Other names like Millie have climbed the ranks, influenced by characters from popular series and reality shows.

Blooming with nature

Many Scottish parents are turning to nature for inspiration, choosing names like Daisy, Ivy, and Violet, which evoke the beauty and simplicity of the outdoors. These names are perfect if you wish to give your daughter a name that’s both gentle and grounded.

The rise of the unique

With a vast array of names to choose from, more parents are opting for unique names, seeking a distinctive identity for their daughters. The variety of names has expanded, meaning even less common names are making their way up the popularity charts.

Names on the move

The movement of names up and down the popularity list is notable. While Emily, Ella, and Ava have seen some decrease, Isla, Freya, and Millie have gained traction, showing the dynamic nature of naming trends.

Choosing a name is a heartfelt decision, and these names offer a blend of character, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for something with a rich heritage or something a bit more distinctive, Scotland’s favorite names provide a wonderful starting point for naming your daughter.

Most popular Scottish girl names

Top 100 baby girl names in Scotland, in order of popularity

1. Olivia: Derived from Latin, meaning “olive tree.”
2. Isla: Of Scottish origin, referring to an island, often associated with Islay, a Scottish island.
3. Freya: Scandinavian origin, meaning “noble woman” or “lady,” from Norse mythology.
4. Millie: Diminutive form of Mildred or Millicent, meaning “gentle strength” or “industrious.”
5. Emily: Of Latin origin, meaning “rival” or “industrious.”
6. Amelia: Of German origin, meaning “work” or “industrious.”
7. Grace: From the Latin “gratia” meaning “favor, thanks.”
8. Sophie: Of Greek origin, meaning “wisdom.”
9. Ava: Of Latin origin, meaning “bird” or possibly “life.”
10. Ella: Of Germanic origin, meaning “all, completely; fairy maiden.”
11. Lily: Of English origin, symbolizing purity and beauty.
12. Charlotte: Feminine of Charles, meaning “free man” in French.
13. Sophia: Greek for “wisdom.”
14. Aria: Of Hebrew and Italian origin, meaning “air; song or melody.”
15. Harper: Of English origin, meaning “harp player.”
16. Ivy: From the Old English word “ifig,” symbolizing fidelity and eternity.
17. Evie: Diminutive of Eve, meaning “life” or “living one.”
18. Lucy: Derived from Latin, meaning “light.”
19. Mia: Of Italian and Scandinavian origin, meaning “mine” or “bitter.”
20. Rosie: Diminutive of Rose, symbolizing the flower and beauty.
21. Sofia: A variant of Sophia, meaning “wisdom” in Greek.
22. Eilidh: Scottish Gaelic, meaning “sun,” “radiant one.”
23. Orla: Of Irish origin, meaning “golden princess.”
24. Maisie: Diminutive of Margaret, meaning “pearl.”
25. Daisy: From the Old English “dæges eage,” meaning “day’s eye.”
26. Willow: After the willow tree, symbolizing grace and flexibility.
27. Jessica: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “God beholds.”
28. Ruby: Named after the red gemstone, symbolizing passion and energy.
29. Ellie: Diminutive of Eleanor or Ellen, meaning “shining light” or “most beautiful woman.”
30. Anna: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “grace” or “favor.”
31. Bonnie: From the Scottish word meaning “pretty” or “attractive.”
32. Elsie: Diminutive of Elisabeth, meaning “pledged to God.”
33. Esme: Of French origin, meaning “esteemed” or “loved.”
34. Maya: Of multiple origins, meaning “illusion” in Sanskrit or “water” in Hebrew.
35. Sienna: Named after the Italian city, known for its reddish-brown clay.
36. Mila: Slavic origin, meaning “gracious” or “dear.”
37. Robyn: A variant of Robin, associated with the bird of the same name.
38. Isabella: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “pledged to God.”
39. Georgia: Feminine form of George, meaning “farmer” or “earth-worker” in Greek.
40. Hannah: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “favor” or “grace.”
41. Poppy: Named after the red flower, symbolizing peace and remembrance.
42. Eva: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “life” or “living one.”
43. Ayla: Of Turkish and Hebrew origin, meaning “moonlight” or “oak tree.”
44. Layla: Of Arabic origin, meaning “night” or “dark beauty.”
45. Callie: Diminutive of Caroline, meaning “free woman” or “beautiful.”
46. Skye: Named after the Isle of Skye in Scotland, denoting adventurous spirit.
47. Hallie: Of Old English origin, meaning “dweller at the meadow by the manor.”
48. Holly: After the holly tree, symbolizing protection and good fortune.
49. Maeve: Of Irish origin, meaning “she who intoxicates.”
50. Emma: Of Germanic origin, meaning “whole” or “universal.”
51. Zara: Of Arabic origin, meaning “princess” or “to blossom.”
52. Ada: Of German origin, meaning “nobility.”
53. Violet: Named after the purple flower, symbolizing faithfulness and modesty.
54. Chloe: Of Greek origin, meaning “blooming” or “fertility.”
55. Erin: Of Irish origin, meaning “from the island to the west” (Ireland).
56. Emilia: Of Latin origin, meaning “to strive” or “excel.”
57. Rose: Named after the flower, associated with love and beauty.
58. Gracie: A variant of Grace, from the Latin “gratia” meaning “favor” or “blessing.”
59. Alice: Of German origin, meaning “noble” or “exalted.”
60. Luna: Latin for “moon,” symbolizing the celestial body.
61. Lottie: Diminutive of Charlotte, meaning “free man” or “petite.”
62. Molly: Diminutive of Mary, meaning “sea of bitterness” or “rebellion.”
63. Nova: Latin for “new,” referring to a star showing a sudden large increase in brightness.
64. Thea: Of Greek origin, meaning “goddess” or “godly.”
65. Phoebe: Of Greek origin, meaning “bright, shining one.”
66. Summer: Named after the warmest season of the year.
67. Cora: Of Greek origin, meaning “maiden” or “daughter.”
68. Remi: Of French origin, meaning “oarsman” or “remedy.”
69. Bella: Of Italian origin, meaning “beautiful.”
70. Harlow: Of English origin, meaning “rock hill” or “army hill.”
71. Aurora: Latin for “dawn,” also the Roman goddess of the morning.
72. Lyla: Of Arabic origin, a variant of Layla, meaning “night.”
73. Zoe: Of Greek origin, meaning “life.”
74. Scarlett: Of English origin, associated with the color red and signifying courage.
75. Myla: Possibly a variant of Mila, meaning “gracious” or “soldier.”
76. Amber: Named after the fossilized tree resin, symbolizing energy.
77. Niamh: Of Irish origin, meaning “bright” or “radiant.”
78. Hope: Symbolizing the optimistic feeling of expectation for a positive outcome.
79. Florence: Latin for “flourishing” or “prosperous.”
80. Annie: Diminutive of Anne, meaning “grace.”
81. Evelyn: Of English origin, meaning “wished for child” or “life.”
82. Nina: Of Spanish and Hebrew origin, meaning “little girl” or “grace.”
83. Abigail: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “father’s joy.”
84. Arabella: Of Latin origin, meaning “yielding to prayer” or “beautiful altar.”
85. Penelope: Of Greek origin, meaning “weaver” or associated with faithfulness.
86. Quinn: Of Irish origin, meaning “descendant of Conn (chief).”
87. Alba: Of Latin origin, meaning “white” or “bright.”
88. Matilda: Of German origin, meaning “battle-mighty.”
89. Mirren: Scottish variation of Marion or Miriam, meaning “sea of sorrow” or “wished-for child.”
90. Eden: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “pleasure” or “delight.”
91. Maeva: Of French origin, meaning “welcome.”
92. Elizabeth: Of Hebrew origin, meaning “God is my oath.”
93. Georgie: Diminutive of Georgia, meaning “farmer” or “earth-worker.”
94. Lilly: Variant of Lily, symbolizing purity and beauty.
95. Imogen: Of Celtic origin, meaning “maiden” or “innocent.”
96. Rowan: Of Gaelic origin, meaning “little redhead” or referring to the rowan tree.
97. Darcie: Of French origin, meaning “dark one.”
98. Lara: Of Russian origin, meaning “protection” or “citadel.”
99. Iona: Named after a small island in the Hebrides, meaning “blessed.”
100. Sadie: Diminutive of Sarah, meaning “princess.”

From the enigmatic performances of Tilda Swinton to the imaginative worlds penned by J.K. Rowling, Scotland’s daughters have made their mark on the world stage. Maybe your daughter can be next!

ALSO SEE: Top 100 Scottish boy names

List source: The National Records of Scotland for 2022, released in 2023