Scottish Names for Boys

Scottish curler Hammy McMillan Jr pulls off this unlikely nickname and might make it feel like a cool alternative to Harry. For some, however, it may ever be associated with hamsters and ham. 

Hammy

A spelling variation of Adair, a name with plenty of flair and a nature connection too. In addition, it may be a variation of Edgar or Ademar.

Adaire

Meaning bard, this is an original choice with poetic and melodic undertones. Bard itself has also come into consideration, both names bringing to mind Shakespeare and other literary lights. 
The Scottish surname Baird's most notable bearer was John Logie Baird, the Scottish engineer and inventor of the televisor, the world's first practical television system in 1926, and also the world's first fully electronic color TV tube two years later. Some might also remember puppeteers Bil and Cora Baird.

Baird

An old nickname for Andrew, created by adding or swapping first initials, as in the case of Bobbie for Robert, Ted for Edward, and Bill for William. Also used as a surname, it made a brief appearance in the US Top 1000 at the end of the 19th-century and has been given in small numbers since then. It has been more notably used for girls, however, possibly as a spelling alternative to the Xhosa Thandie. 

Tandy

Nice Scottish sound, but too tied to sweaters and socks. 

Argyle

While Blaney might sound like a nickname for the Scottish Blaine (and Blane) — and this is one possible origin for it — it may also be an Irish surname and place name. As such, it refers to either the point or tip of a river (borrowed from the Welsh blaenau) or to a village in Northern Ireland, whose name comes from Bléinigh meaning "creeks".
 
More traditionally used in the last name spot (as in racing driver, Ryan Blaney), it has occasionally be used as a given name too.

Blaney

Alick is a masculine name primarily found in Scottish usage as a variant of Alex or Alexander, which derives from Greek elements meaning 'defender of mankind.' The form Alick developed as a diminutive that became established as an independent given name in its own right, particularly in Scotland and parts of England. While less common than Alexander or Alex, Alick has historical precedent dating back several centuries. The name carries a traditional, somewhat rustic charm and maintains connections to Scottish heritage. Though its usage has declined in recent decades, it occasionally appears as a family name passed through generations or chosen by parents seeking a slightly distinctive alternative to the more common Alexander variants.

Alick

Ailbert is a masculine name with Germanic origins, derived from elements meaning 'noble' ('adal') and 'bright' or 'famous' ('beraht'). It's a variant of Albert, which became widespread throughout Europe after being introduced to England by the Normans. Ailbert has a distinctly medieval feel, evoking images of ancient nobility and chivalric tradition. While Albert became extremely popular, particularly after Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha married Queen Victoria, the Ailbert variant remained uncommon. The name carries connotations of wisdom and dignity, qualities associated with notable bearers of related forms like Albert Einstein. This spelling variation offers a way to honor family traditions connected to Albert while providing a more distinctive alternative that maintains the historical gravitas of the original.

Ailbert

Adelbert is a masculine name of Germanic origin combining the elements 'adal' meaning noble or aristocratic and 'beraht' meaning bright or famous. It's an antiquated form of Albert.

Popular among medieval European nobility, Adelbert was carried by several saints and rulers throughout history. The name traveled across Europe with variations including Albert, Adalbert, and Ethelbert. 

While its usage declined in the 20th century, Adelbert maintains an aristocratic, refined quality that appeals to parents drawn to vintage names with strong historical roots. It offers distinctive formal options with friendly nicknames like Adel, Del, or Bert.

Adelbert

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

A lively and engaging Scottish surname with an outdoorsy feel, Lundy (almost) coincides with the French word for Monday. 


Lundy

Amiable, undiscovered geographic option. 

Aberdeen

Euro-cool. Heard more in Scotland than in England or the US, Ludovic Lesly is a character in the Sir Walter Scott novel Quentin Durward and Sir Ludovic Kennedy was a noted Scottish broadcaster and writer. Cute nickname: Ludo.

Ludovic

Laird is a Scottish title for the landed gentry – it ranks just below a Baron – with a pleasantly distinctive Scottish burr that must have appealed to Sharon Stone, who chose it for her son.
 Laird Cregar was an early movie actor, known for playing creepy roles; Laird Hamilton is a famous American big-wave surfer.

Laird

When actress Deborah Kerr entered the scene, there was a great debate over her name's pronunciation. Car or Ker. Your choice. 

Kerr

Between "Old MacDonald" and Big Mac allusions, this would be a risky choice. 

Macdonald

Interesting possibility for the son or grandson of a Gregory. 

Macgregor

 such as Alistair and Tavish strike a strong balance between familiarity and distinctiveness, which many parents are seeking in their baby name search.

Scottish boys names also often have nice cultural references, from "Macbeth" to "Outlander." Scottish names for boys shouldn't be restricted only to those with Scottish ancestry, at least not the appealing ones on our list of 



Here is our full list of boy names with Scottish origins, ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry. 

Scottish Names for Boys with meanings and popularity, including popular Scottish baby names in scotland, unique Scottish baby names. (Page 11)