Scottish Names

Traditionally pronounced "ming-iz" and thus the relationship to the jazzy Mingus, Menzies is an old Scottish surname related to the more common Manners.

Menzies

Ailean is a masculine name with Scottish Gaelic origins, often considered a variation of Alan or Allen. The traditional Gaelic spelling imbues this classic name with Highland heritage and distinctive character. Meaning "handsome" or "cheerful," Ailean carries positive associations reflecting attractive qualities. Though uncommon in mainstream usage, the name remains known in Scottish and Irish communities preserving Gaelic linguistic traditions. Ailean combines ancient Celtic roots with a gentle yet masculine sound. The unusual spelling offers a connection to Gaelic heritage while the familiar pronunciation maintains accessibility.

Ailean

Takes Monroe out of the Dead Presidents category and gives it new life. 

Munro

A common family name in Scotland, occasionally used as a first. 

Muir

Mungo is one of the most classic <a href="https://nameberry.com/list/428/scottish-baby-names">Scottish names</a> but perhaps also among the most difficult names to carry. There is a St. Mungo whose proper name was Kentigern; he is the patron saint of Glasgow. It was used by writer Douglas Stuart as the titular character for his novel Young Mungo.

Mungo

Amiable, undiscovered geographic option. 

Aberdeen

Scottish nature name that could prove a tongue- twister for the younger set. 

Nairn

The surname of the influential early Scottish inventor of logarithms could make an inspiring middle name choice for a mathematically inclined family. 

Napier

Excellent candidate for use as an undiscovered surname name. Niven is the Anglicized spelling of the Irish name Naomhan, a diminutive of the word naomh which means saint. This handsome but unusual name was given to only six boys in the US last year. Your parents may be familiar with actor David Niven.
 
Other forms of the name include Nevan and Nevin.

Niven

Often used in England, but here likely to be confused with the feminine Nicole. Nicol Williamson was a Scottish-born actor once described by playwright John Osborne as "the greatest actor since Marlon Brando".

Nicol

Ancient Irish saint's name that's unlikely, because of its similarity to "ninny," to join cousin Finian in popularity. 

Ninian

Norrie is a charming masculine name with Scottish origins, typically functioning as a diminutive of Norman or Nora. In Scottish usage, particularly in the Highlands, Norrie developed as an affectionate form that eventually stood as an independent name. The name carries a warm, friendly quality with its soft ending sound. While never reaching mainstream popularity, Norrie maintains steady usage in Scotland and among Scottish diaspora communities. The name blends traditional roots with a contemporary sound, making it appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet approachable. Norrie's compact form and easy pronunciation contribute to its subtle charm and usability across age groups.

Norrie

A nice enough last name that turns supercilious as a first. 

Norville

There's a Perth in Scotland and a bigger one in Australia; this name could make a statement similar to Heath. 

Perth

Philbin is a masculine name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic 'Féilbhín' or 'Failbhe,' meaning 'wolf' or 'little wolf.' This surname-turned-first-name gained recognition in America largely through television personality Regis Philbin, who brought it to public attention during his long career in entertainment. While not commonly used as a first name, Philbin carries a distinctive sound and strong cultural connection to Irish heritage. It conveys qualities of loyalty, strength, and charisma. The name remains rare as a given name, making it a unique choice that stands out while still being recognizable, particularly among those familiar with Irish naming traditions or media personalities.

Philbin

Pilbin is an extremely rare masculine name with obscure origins. It may have evolved as a surname before transitioning to occasional use as a first name, following the pattern of many surnames that have made this shift. The name potentially has Irish or English roots, possibly related to ancient Celtic naming traditions or geographic locations. As a first name, Pilbin has remained exceedingly uncommon, barely registering in naming statistics across English-speaking countries. This rarity gives it a distinctive quality that might appeal to parents seeking a truly unique option. The name has a strong, somewhat traditional sound despite its obscurity. With its uncommon nature, Pilbin offers the benefit of individuality while still having a pronounceable, accessible structure.

Pilbin

If used at all these days, it would be to honor artist Jackson, whose first name would be far preferable. 

Pollock

Raghnall is a masculine name of Scottish Gaelic origin, equivalent to the Norse name Rögnvaldr, which means 'ruler's advisor' or 'powerful ruler.' This traditional name has deep roots in Celtic and Viking heritage, particularly in the Hebrides and other Gaelic-speaking regions of Scotland. Historically borne by several Norse-Gael rulers and nobles, Raghnall carries strong associations with leadership and wisdom. The anglicized version Ronald is much more common in contemporary usage, making Raghnall a distinctive choice that strongly preserves its Celtic linguistic heritage. Parents might choose this name to honor Scottish ancestry or for its powerful meaning and distinctive sound that connects to ancient traditions.

Raghnall

Ranald is a Scottish form of the Norse name Rögnvaldr, composed of 'regin' meaning 'advice' and 'valdr' meaning 'ruler.' This ancient name was brought to Scotland by Viking settlers and became established particularly in the Highlands and Western Isles. The Gaelic form is Raghnall. Historically significant through the prominent Clan Ranald (MacDonald), the name carries strong Scottish heritage associations. While never extremely common, Ranald has maintained consistent usage in Scotland. The name conveys strength and leadership qualities through its etymology. Outside Scotland, it remains relatively rare, offering distinctiveness while still being recognizable and pronounceable in most English-speaking regions.

Ranald

This unusual name found in Scottish poetry would make a distinctive Gaelic pick. 

Vevina

 may be familiar outside their native land, but many retain their distinctly Scottish style. While Scottish names may relate to both Ireland via their individual versions of the Gaelic language and to England via their shared heritage in the United Kingdom.

 today evidence that blend, with English names such as Emily and Jack sharing the stage with distinctly Scottish baby names such as Isla and Finlay. If you have Scottish heritage or simply love that beautiful land, you may be interested in finding a Scottish name for your baby.


Here, our full list of Scottish boys' names and Scottish girls' names, ranked by their current popularity on Nameberry.

Scottish Names with origin and popularity, including Scottish names for boys and names from Scotland for baby girls. (Page 12)