Scottish Names that Start With R

With its gentle sounds and earthy vibes, the name Rowan feels like a fusion of different styles. A word name, a surname, and a gender-neutral name, Rowan is rustic but trendy, blending the vibes of both Owen and Oakley.

Rory is a buoyant, spirited name for a redhead with Celtic roots. The name Rory is getting more popular overall, but for the past few years has been trending decidedly toward the boys' side -- however, it's been rising to new heights for girls in recent years.

Stylish, gentle, and rustic at the same time, Rowan is a name that falls into various categories. Unisex and cool, mystical and woodsy, with the feel of both Rose and Riley, Rowan is a fresh but familiar choice.

Like Friends, Ross is off the air and into syndication as a baby name, having plummeted from its zenith in the late 80s to fall off the US Top 1000 in 2013. Today, Ross is more likely to be a dad name than a newborn name.

Rona ranked in the US Top 1000 in the mid-20th century but holds new meaning in the 2020s. "Rona" has become slang for coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, which gives the name a dark and somber edge. In 2020, Rona was given to 17 baby girls (a fall from 26 the previous year). In 2021, it dropped to just 5 — we expect it to drop off the list entirely in the years to come.

Historically more popular for boys and generally less familiar than its sound-alike Rowan, Roan is a name with multiple meanings, origins, and pronunciations. Given to less than 10 girls back in 2023, time will tell if singer-songwriter Chappell Roan has brought the name more exposure.

Possibly started life as a short form of Rhonwen, but most likely derives from the name of the Hebridean island Rona, which means "rough island".

British-sounding literary surname choice.

Ruthven is an unusual feminine name with Scottish origins, primarily known as a Scottish surname and place name. Historically, Ruthven was more commonly used as a masculine given name or family name in Scotland. The name derives from Gaelic elements possibly meaning 'red river' or may relate to the lands of Ruthven in Perthshire, Scotland. While rare as a first name, particularly for females, it carries a distinctive Scottish heritage and aristocratic associations due to its connection with the historical Ruthven family, who were prominent in Scottish affairs. The name has a strong, somewhat austere quality with its consonant-ending sound, which contrasts with more traditionally feminine name patterns. For parents seeking an uncommon name with historical depth and Scottish connections, Ruthven offers a bold choice that defies conventional gender-naming patterns.

If girls have adopted Ray, why not Roy.

Roban is a masculine name with several potential origins. It may be a variation of Robin, which derives from the Germanic elements 'hrod' (fame) and 'berht' (bright). Alternatively, it could relate to the Irish name Ruadhán, meaning 'red-haired' or 'little red one.' In some contexts, it appears as a surname or place name before transitioning to use as a given name. Roban has a strong, concise sound while remaining relatively uncommon in most English-speaking countries. The name carries a subtle medieval quality while still feeling contemporary and accessible. Its cross-cultural potential and masculine sound appeal to parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable that works well internationally.

Roleen is an uncommon feminine name that likely developed as a creative variation of names like Rowena, Rosalind, or Roland, or as a combination of the popular 'Ro' prefix with the '-leen' suffix (similar to Kathleen or Eileen). The 'Ro' element often connects to words meaning 'fame' or 'glory' in various European languages, while '-leen' typically relates to light or brightness in its Celtic origins. Roleen emerged in limited usage during the mid-20th century when unique variations of traditional names became fashionable. The name has never been widely popular but offers a distinctive option with its blend of familiar sounds in a novel combination. Roleen carries a vintage charm with its rhythmic flow and feminine ending while maintaining uniqueness through its relative rarity.

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.

Raibeart is the traditional Scottish Gaelic form of Robert, a masculine name with Germanic origins. The original elements 'hrod' (fame) and 'beraht' (bright) combine to mean 'bright fame' or 'brilliant renown.' This distinctive spelling preserves the authentic Gaelic heritage and pronunciation, connecting its bearer to Scottish Highland culture and traditions. While relatively uncommon outside Scotland, Raibeart offers a meaningful choice for families with Scottish ancestry or those appreciating Celtic linguistic traditions. The name has maintained a consistent presence in Scottish naming customs throughout generations, though it remains a rare choice in most English-speaking regions. Raibeart provides a strong cultural identity while sharing the distinguished history of its more common counterpart, Robert.

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.

Stronger and fresher than the original, though it may provoke the question, "Got a light?"

An old name still occasionally heard in the U.K., but still and perhaps forever a foreigner in the U.S. Can be spelled Ranulf.

Raibeartag is a masculine name from Scottish Gaelic tradition, serving as the Gaelic form of Robert. The name derives from Germanic elements meaning 'bright fame' or 'famous brilliance.' Raibeartag represents the preservation of traditional Gaelic naming practices amid the revival of interest in Celtic heritage and language. While extremely rare even within Scotland, the name holds cultural significance for those connected to Gaelic traditions and Scottish Highland heritage. The distinctive spelling and pronunciation reflect the phonetic patterns of Gaelic, making it challenging but meaningful for those outside the culture. Raibeartag embodies cultural preservation and ancestral connections for families with Scottish Gaelic roots.