A curated list of Irish and Scottish names for baby girls — and which ones could go viral in 2025.

On the hunt for a meaningful Celtic name that’s cool in the United States?

You’re in the right place!

Below, you’ll find over 120 names that feel authentically Irish or Scottish, while still attractive to the American ear.

Towards the end, you’ll also find a shortlist of Irish and Scottish girl names posied to go viral in 2025.

Related: Irish Boy Names

Irish and Scottish names trending in 2025

These Irish and Scottish girls’ names are climbing the charts right now! Each improved significantly from last year’s rankings.

Blair 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Traditional Scottish name meaning “dweller in the plain or field.”
• Popularity: #239 (↑43)

Bonnie 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “bonnie” meaning “beautiful” or “pretty”.
• Popularity: #502 (↑26)

^ I know, this one surprised me too! More on this name later.

Clover 🍀

• Name meaning: An English name meaning “meadow flower,” linked to the shamrock, a national symbol of luck and Irish heritage.
• Popularity: #675

Collins 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Coileáin”, meaning young hound.
• Popularity: #237

Delaney 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Dubhshláine”, meaning “descendant of the challenger.”
• Popularity: #234 (↑10)

Elsie 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish variant of Elizabeth, meaning “my God is abundance.”
• Popularity: #163 in the U.S. and #31 in Scotland

Fallon 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Dubhshláine”, meaning “descendant of the challenger.”
• Popularity: #689

Flora 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish folklore, name of the patron saint of flowers.
• Popularity: #684 (↑41)

Maeve 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Meadhbh”, name of a legendary warrior queen of Connacht.
• Popularity: #73 (↑30)  Currently ranked #80 in Ireland and #40 in Scotland.

Maisie 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish pet form of Margaret meaning “pearl.”
• Popularity: #293 in the U.S. and #15 in Scotland

Murphy 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Murchadha”, meaning sea warrior.
• Popularity: #519 for girls and #896 for boys

Rory 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “ruadh rí” meaning “red king.”
• Popularity: #305 for girls and #242 for boys

Rowan 🇮🇪 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From both Irish “ruadhán” and Scottish “ruadhan,” meaning the rowan tree (a tree with red berries sacred in Celtic folklore).
• Popularity: #233 for girls and #76 for boys

Tallulah 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Tuilelaith” meaning “abundance of water.”
• Popularity: #817

More on 2025 viral predictions in just a bit.

Popular Modern Irish and Scottish Names

These girl’s names of Irish and Scottish origin are ranked in the top 1000 in the United States.

Adelyn 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: A modern fusion combining Germanic “adal” (noble) with Scottish “lin” (lake).
• Popularity: #319

Aila 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic, variant of Aileen, meaning “light bearer” or “bright one.”
• Popularity: #312

Aileen 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “Eilidh” meaning “light” or “bright one.”
• Popularity: Aileen #796 and Ayleen #914.

Ainsley 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “àinneasach” meaning “from one’s own meadow.”
• Popularity: #598

Allison 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “Alasdair” meaning “son of Ellis.”
• Popularity: #100

Arabella 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Latin origins meaning “yielding to prayer.”
• Popularity: #227

Ashlyn 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Aisling” meaning “dream” or “vision.”
• Popularity: Ashlyn #832 and Ashlynn #921

Blakely 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “dark wood” or “dark clearing.”
• Popularity: #155

Bridget 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Brighid,” name of an ancient Celtic goddess of fire and poetry.
• Popularity: #748

Cameron 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Highlands “cam sron” meaning “crooked nose.”
• Popularity: #480 for girls, #58 for boys

Cassidy 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Caiside”, meaning curly-headed.
• Popularity: #496

Erin 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From “Éirinn,” the poetic name for Ireland.
• Popularity: #658

Fiona 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic feminine name meaning “fair” or “white.”
• Popularity: #400

Finley 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “fionnlagh” meaning “fair warrior.”
• Popularity: #282 for girls, #285 for boys

Harper 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish bardic tradition, literally “one who plays the harp.”
• Popularity: #11 in the U.S. and #22 in Scotland

Isla 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Named after Scottish islands, derived from Norse “island.”
• Popularity: #33 in the U.S. and the #1 most popular name in Scotland!

Kayla 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Modern form of Scottish Gaelic “caol”, meaning “slender” or “narrow.”
• Popularity: #324

Keira 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Feminine form of Irish “Ciara” meaning “dark-haired.”
• Popularity: #571

Kendra 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Feminine form of Scottish “Kenneth” meaning “born of fire.”
• Popularity: #741

Kennedy 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish Gaelic “Ó Ceannéidigh” meaning “helmeted chief.”
• Popularity: #72

Lennon 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “Leannain” meaning “lover” or “sweetheart.”
• Popularity: #243 for girls and #754 for boys

Lennox 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “elmhurst” meaning “from the field of elm trees.”
• Popularity: #628 for girls and #265 for boys

Logan 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “lagan” meaning “little hollow.”
• Popularity: #356 for girls and #39 for boys

Kenzie 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “MacCoinnich” meaning “son of Kenneth.”
• Popularity: #564

Kinley 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “kingsman’s meadow” or “fair warrior’s clearing.”
• Popularity: #597

Kinsley 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “king’s meadow”, combining “kin” (chief) with “ley” (meadow).
• Popularity: #68

Kyla 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Feminine form of Scottish “Kyle” meaning “strait” or “channel.”
• Popularity: #565

Mackenzie 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “MacCoinnich” meaning “son of Kenneth.”
• Popularity: #166

McKenna 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Mac Cionaoith” meaning “son of Kenneth.”
• Popularity: #326

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McKinley 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “son of the fair warrior” or “son of the fair-headed chief.”
• Popularity: #634

Paisley 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish town known for its pattern-making tradition.
• Popularity: #56

Related: Middle Names for Paisley

Quinn 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Cuinn”, meaning descendant of Conn.
• Popularity: #85 for girls and #452 for boys

Related: Middle Names for Quinn

Reagan or Reagan 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ríoghnach” meaning “little ruler.”
• Popularity: Reagan #168 and Raegan #418

Riley 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Raghailligh” meaning “valiant.”
• Popularity: #43 for girls and #223 for boys

Sloane 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Sluagháin” meaning “warrior” or “raider.”
• Popularity: #151

Skye 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Isle of Skye, derived from Old Norse meaning “cloud island.”
• Popularity: #446 in the U.S. and #53 in Scotland

Teagan 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Tadhg” meaning “poet” or “philosopher.”
• Popularity: #308

If you like these popular Scottish and Irish girl names you’ll like these modern names.

Pretty Irish girl names you don’t hear every day

These beautiful Irish names are underused and ripe for the picking!

Brennan 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Braonáin” meaning “descendant of Braonán.”
• Popularity: This B name isn’t ranking for girls but ranks #763 for boys.

Ciara 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ciar” meaning “dark-haired.”
• Popularity: This Irish C name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #95 in Ireland.

Edana 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Éadaoin” meaning “jealousy” or “fire.”
• Popularity: This elegant girls’ name isn’t ranking in the U.S.

Enya 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Eithne” meaning “kernel” or “essence.”
• Popularity: This 4-letter girls’ name isn’t ranking.

Ireland

• Name meaning: A country in Western Europe. Pretty as a middle name!
• Popularity: This I name hasn’t ranked since 2015.

Keeley 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish Gaelic “caol” meaning “slender” or “graceful.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Kyra 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Variant of Irish “Ciara” meaning “dark-haired.”
• Popularity: #698

Larkin 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Lorcáin”, meaning fierce or rough.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Muriel 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Muirgheal” meaning “bright sea.”
• Popularity: This unique M name isn’t ranking.

Orla 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Órfhlaith” meaning “golden princess.”
• Popularity: This O name isn’t ranking in the US, but is quite popular in England and Scotland.

Shay or Shea 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Séaghdha”, meaning hawk-like.
• Popularity: While Shea isn’t ranking, Shay ranks #997 for girls

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Old Irish Girl Names That Work in America

These names are deeply Irish but are manageable for American speakers.

Aislinn 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Dream or vision. (Pronounced “ash-linn”).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Brenna 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From the Irish surname Ó Braonáin, meaning descendant of Braonán (meaning sorrow).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Caitlin 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Pure. (Pronounced “KAT-leen” in traditional Irish).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Carey 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Ciardha”, meaning dark or black.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Casey 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Cathasaigh”, meaning vigilant or watchful.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking for girls and ranks #616 for boys.

Colleen 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From “cailín,” meaning “girl” in Irish.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Devin 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Poet or bard.
• Popularity: This badass name isn’t ranking for girls and ranks #461 for boys.

Deirdre 🇮🇪 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From both Irish and Scottish Gaelic legend, name of a tragic heroine meaning “woman of sorrows.”
• Popularity: This vintage girl’s name isn’t ranking.

Grania 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Grain (from legendary Irish princess Gráinne). (Pronounced “GRAWN-ya”).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Kelly 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “Ó Ceallaigh”, meaning bright-headed.
• Popularity: #773

Maura 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Máire, Irish form of Mary.
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t ranking.

Moira 🇮🇪 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Máire (Irish) or Moire (Scottish), both forms of Mary. Common in both Irish and Scottish traditions. (Pronounced “MOY-ra”).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Noreen 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Little honor (diminutive of Nora).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t ranking.

Saoirse 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From the Irish Gaelic word “saoirse,” meaning freedom. (Pronounced “SEER-sha” or “SAIR-sha”).
• Popularity: #959 in the U.S. and #27 in Ireland

Siobhan 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: God is gracious. (Pronounced “shi-VAWN”).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Tierney 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From the Irish surname Ó Tíghearnaigh, meaning “descendant of the lord.” (Pronounced “TEER-nee”).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

👉🏼 Jump to this bonus list of traditional Irish names you rarely hear outside of Ireland.

Cute and Underused Scottish Girl Names

These whimsical Scottish names offer fresh alternatives to popular choices while maintaining their Celtic charm.

Adair 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “ath” and “dar” meaning “ford of the oak trees.”
• Popularity: This tree-inspired baby name isn’t ranking.

Ailsa 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “Aillse” referring to the volcanic island Ailsa Craig.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Aileana 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish feminine form of Ailean (Alan), from the Celtic for “little rock” or “harmony”.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Ansley 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “clearing by the stream.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Effie 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Greek “euphemia” meaning “well-spoken,” traditional Scottish diminutive.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Greer 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish surname derived from “Gregor,” meaning “watchful” or “vigilant.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Rae 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “roe deer” or “grace.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.  Cute middle name!

Thistle 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish national flower, symbolizing nobility and resilience.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.  Cute middle name!

Vaila 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Norse origins, name of an island in Shetland. (Prounounced “VAY-lah”).
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Old Scottish Girl Names That Work in America

These names are deeply Scottish but are manageable for American speakers.

Agnes 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Greek “hagnē” meaning “pure” or “holy,” popular in medieval Scotland.
• Popularity: This classic girl’s name isn’t ranking.

Bethia 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Hebrew “bat-Yah” meaning “daughter of God,” traditionally used in Scotland.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Davina 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Feminine form of David, meaning “beloved”. Scottish form dating back to the medieval period. (Pronounced “da-VEE-na”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Elspeth 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish form of Elizabeth, meaning “God is my oath.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

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Heather 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish flowering plant growing in the highlands.
• Popularity: This H name isn’t ranking.

Kirsty 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic, variant of Christina, meaning “follower of Christ.”
• Popularity: This K name isn’t ranking.

Lindsay 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish “linne” meaning “lake” and “sigh” meaning “island.”
• Popularity: Neither Lindsay nor Lindsey is ranking.

Marion 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish variation of Mary, meaning “bitter” or “beloved.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Sheena 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic, feminine form of John, meaning “God is gracious.”
• Popularity: This S name isn’t ranking.

Wilma 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Germanic “Wilhelmina” meaning “resolute protection,” used traditionally in Scotland.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Unique Scottish Girl Names

These distinctive Scottish names are rarely heard outside Scotland, making them stand out in any setting.

Catriona 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic, feminine form of Cathair, meaning “pure.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Euphemia 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Greek meaning “well-spoken,” historically popular in Scotland.
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

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Iona 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic, named after the holy island of Iona in Scotland.
• Popularity: This short name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #79 in Scotland.

Lileas 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “lilium” meaning “lily flower.”
• Popularity: Neither spelling is ranking.

Rhona 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic, meaning “rough island.”
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Una 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish and Irish Gaelic, meaning “lamb” or “one.”
• Popularity: This 3-letter girl’s name isn’t ranking.

Will any Irish or Scottish girl names go viral in 2025?

Yes!

After analyzing hundreds of Irish and Scottish names for girls, there are five names on a viral trajectory and four names to watch.

Here they are in order of likelihood to explode in popularity:

Collins 🇮🇪

Collins demonstrates one of the most impressive trajectories in recent naming data, not just among Irish girl names.

The name rose 724 ranking positions since its debut in 2012 at #961 to reach #237 in 2023—marking an extraordinary 75% improvement in just 11 years.

Its recent momentum is particularly telling: it jumped 81 spots between 2021-2022 (from #328 to #247), followed by another 10-spot gain in 2023.

Its current position in the 200-300 range often precedes explosive growth, as demonstrated by similar crossover names like Parker (now #121) and Sawyer (#278).

Collins hits multiple current trends: it’s a surname-as-first-name, features the fashionable two-syllable structure with an ‘s’ ending, and follows the growing pattern of traditionally masculine names crossing to girls.

The -ins ending aligns with contemporary Irish favorites like the also-Irish Quinn (#452), while carrying the preppy, sophisticated feel that’s increasingly appealing to parents.

Murphy 🇮🇪

Murphy represents one of the most dramatic rises among Irish girl names, leaping from its first appearance at #978 in 2020 to #519 in just three years.

While traditional Irish names like Siobhan and Eileen have declined, Murphy embodies the modern preference for surname-style choices with Celtic roots.

The name has shown particularly explosive growth in the past year, jumping 148 spots from #667 to #519 in 2023.

What’s especially notable is its gender shift – in 2023, more than twice as many girls (582) received the name compared to boys (257).

Murphy hits multiple sweet spots in current naming trends: it’s gender-neutral, has Irish heritage, works as a surname-first-name, and carries a casual, friendly vibe that modern parents love.

If current trends continue, Murphy could easily break into the top 300 by 2025, cementing its status as one of the fastest-rising Irish-origin names for girls.

Maeve 🇮🇪

Carried by a legendary Irish warrior queen, Maeve has become a modern powerhouse in baby naming across the English-speaking world.

After first appearing in the U.S. top 1000 at #955 in 1997, Maeve has skyrocketed 882 spots to reach #73 in 2023, with its most dramatic gains coming in recent years.

What’s particularly striking is its acceleration at higher ranks – jumping 30 spots from #103 to #73 in 2023, showing rare momentum for a name already in the top 100.

The name has demonstrated remarkable international appeal, ranking #25 in New Zealand, #40 in both Canada and Scotland, #43 in Australia, and #48 in England.

Cultural visibility has played a key role, from Netflix’s Sex Education (2019-2023) to HBO’s Westworld (2016-2022), while fantasy author Sarah J. Maas continues to feature heroines bearing the name.

Rory 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

The traditionally male Scottish name Rory is experiencing a remarkable transformation as it gains momentum for girls, jumping from #335 to #305 in 2023 – its highest ranking ever for girls.

This rise shows no signs of slowing – Rory has climbed 378 positions since 2013, with the pace of growth accelerating in recent years.

While Scottish girl names like Isla and Blair have already found mainstream success, Rory represents the next wave of Scottish-inspired choices making the crossover to girls.

The name got fresh visibility in 2024 when former Bachelor Nick Viall and Natalie Joy chose it for one of their twin daughters.

The name hit a milestone in 2023 with over 1,000 baby girls receiving the name (1,005 to be exact) – representing its highest usage ever for girls.

With its perfect mix of Scottish heritage, gender-neutral style, and that trending “ry” ending seen in popular names like Emery and Avery, Rory has all the ingredients of a name poised for continued growth.

Blair 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

The Scottish name Blair has shown impressive momentum, climbing 738 spots since 2011.

The alternative spelling “Blaire” (#516) is also rising rapidly, indicating even stronger overall popularity than the rankings suggest.

The name gained significant cultural capital through Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girl (2007-2012), with the HBO Max reboot (2021) bringing fresh visibility.

Both spellings continue showing consistent year-over-year growth rather than spikes, suggesting sustained momentum rather than a fleeting trend.

Currently performing better than its previous peak in the 1980s, Blair appears poised to break into the top 200 for the first time in recorded history.

Irish and Scottish names to watch in 2025

While it’s too soon to predict viral status, the following four names show notable movement in the rankings with the potential for significant gains this year.

Tallulah

After barely making the top 1000 in 2022, this Irish-inspired name surged 182 spots to #817 in 2023, showing remarkable momentum.

The name’s popularity in England (#266) indicates growing international appeal.

Clover

This Irish-linked nature name has jumped 185 spots since 2021, moving from #860 to #675.

Recent celebrity choices, including Scott Porter’s daughter in 2017, have given the name fresh visibility.

Flora

A classic Scottish name with deep historical roots, Flora has climbed steadily from #943 in 2019 to #684 in 2023.

The name shows remarkable strength internationally, ranking #103 in Scotland, #122 in Canada, and #60 in Austria.

Its connection to Scottish heroine Flora MacDonald and Bonnie Prince Charlie gives it authentic Celtic heritage.

Bonnie

Currently ranked #502, up from #528 in 2022, this Scottish favorite shows strong international performance.

Its impressive rankings in Scotland (#24), Ireland (#33), and England (#35) suggest potential for U.S. growth.

The name’s vintage charm and connection to Scottish heritage make it particularly appealing as parents seek authentic cultural choices.

Traditional Irish Girl Names

Most of these old Irish names for girls rank in Ireland’s top 100.

As you’ll see, they look and feel very Irish. They may work best as middle names if you live in the U.S.

Ailbhe 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Old Irish “ailbhe” meaning “white” or “bright”. Name of an Irish female saint. (Pronounced “AL-va” or “AYL-ba”)
• Popularity: This A name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #45 in Ireland.

Áine 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Intelligence. (Pronounced “an-ya”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #80 in Ireland.

Aoibhín 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Radiant. (Pronounced “EE-van”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #72 in Ireland.

Aoife 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Beautiful. (Pronounced “EE-fa”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #31 in Ireland and #108 in Scotland.

Bláthnaid 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “bláth” meaning “flower”, with the diminutive suffix -naid, meaning “little flower”. (Pronounced “BLAW-nid”)
• Popularity: This long girl’s name isn’t ranking.

Cadhla 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Graceful or beautiful. (Pronounced “KY-la”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #88 in Ireland.

Caoimhe 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Beautiful, beloved, or graceful. (Pronounced “kee-va”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #26 in Ireland.

Cliona 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish mythology, name of a queen of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Associated with County Cork and considered the most beautiful woman in Ireland. (Pronounced “KLEE-un-a”)
• Popularity: This 3-syllable girl’s name isn’t ranking.

Clodagh 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: An Irish river. (Pronounced “CLO-dah”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #54 in Ireland.

Croía 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Heart. (Pronounced “cree-ya”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t ranking in the U.S. but is popular in Ireland.

Doireann 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “doireann” meaning “sullen” or “tempestuous”, also associated with the meaning “daughter of storms”. (Pronounced “DEER-in” or “DOR-in”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Éabha 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Life. (Pronounced “AY-va”, this is the Irish spelling of Ava).
• Popularity: This E name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #9 in Ireland.

Éala 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Swan. (Pronounced “AY-la”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #53 in Ireland.

Eimear 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish mythology meaning “swift” or “ready”. Name of the wife of legendary hero Cú Chulainn. (Pronounced “AY-mar”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Eilish 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Irish Gaelic form of Elizabeth, ultimately meaning “God is my oath” or “pledged to God”. (Pronounced “AY-lish”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Eithne 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish meaning “kernel” or “seed”. Name of many figures in Irish mythology and several Irish saints. (Pronounced “EN-ya” or “ETH-na”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Etain 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish mythology, meaning “jealousy” or “passion”. Name of a transformed goddess in the tale “The Wooing of Étaín”. (Pronounced “AY-deen”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Fíadh 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Wild. (Pronounced “FEE-a”).
• Popularity: This F name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #2 in Ireland and #84 in Scotland.

Gobnait 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Feminine form of Gobnet, from Irish “gobha” meaning “smith”. Name of an Irish saint associated with County Cork. (Pronounced “GUB-net”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Laoise 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Light. (Pronounced “lee-sha”).
• Popularity: This L name isn’t ranking in the U.S. but is popular in Ireland.

Líadan 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish meaning “grey lady”. Name of an early Irish poet who became a nun. (Pronounced “LEE-din”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Méabh 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: She who intoxicates. Irish version of Maeve.
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #46 in Ireland.

Muireann 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish “muir” meaning “sea” and “fionn” meaning “white/fair”, thus “sea-fair” or “sea-white”. (Pronounced “MWIR-in”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Niamh 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Bright. (Pronounced “NEEV”).
• Popularity: This N name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #73 in Ireland and #60 in Scotland.

Nuala 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Irish diminutive of Fionnuala, from “fionn” meaning “white, fair” and “guala” meaning “shoulder”. (Pronounced “NOO-la”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Riona 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Irish variant of Regina, meaning “queen”. Also possibly derived from Irish “rí” meaning “king”. (Pronounced “REE-na”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Róisín 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Little rose. (Pronounced “ro-SHEEN”).
• Popularity: This R name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #36 in Ireland.

Sadhbh 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Sweet and lovely. (Pronounced “SAH-eev”).
• Popularity: This Irish name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #42 in Ireland.

Síofra 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: From Irish meaning “elf” or “sprite”, related to the Gaelic word for fairy. (Pronounced “SHEE-fra”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Treasa 🇮🇪

• Name meaning: Irish form of Teresa, originally from Greek meaning “from Therasia” or “harvester”. (Pronounced “TRASS-a”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

If you like these traditional Irish girl names you might also like this list of exotic names.

Traditional Scottish Girl Names

These authentic Gaelic names showcase Scotland’s linguistic heritage with their traditional spellings and pronunciations.

They may work best as middle names if you live in the U.S.

Ailis 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Alice, originally from Germanic meaning “noble”. (Pronounced “AY-lish”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Ailith 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Medieval Scottish form of Adelaide, from Germanic elements meaning “noble” and “type”. (Pronounced “AY-lith”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Annag 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic diminutive of Anna, meaning “grace”. (Pronounced “AN-ak”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Beathag 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Rebecca, meaning “life” or “lively one”. (Pronounced “BEH-hag”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Eilidh 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Helen, meaning “light” or “bright one”. (Pronounced “AY-lee”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t popular in the U.S. but ranks #26 in Scotland.

Fionnaghal 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Flora, from “fionn” meaning “white” or “fair”. (Pronounced “FYUN-a-gal”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Gormlaith 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: From Scottish Gaelic “gorm” meaning “blue” and “flaith” meaning “princess” or “sovereign”. (Pronounced “GORM-lah”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Grizel 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish form of Griselda, from Germanic elements meaning “grey” and “battle”. (Pronounced “GRIZ-el”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Ishbel 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish form of Isabel, ultimately derived from Hebrew “Elisheba” meaning “God is my oath”. (Pronounced “ISH-bel”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Kenina 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Feminine form of Kenneth, from Scottish Gaelic “Coinneach” meaning “born of fire”. (Pronounced “KEN-ee-na”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Mairghread 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Margaret, meaning “pearl”. (Pronounced “MAR-uh-red”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Marsaili 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Marjory or Marcella, derived from Mars, the Roman god of war. (Pronounced “MAR-sa-lee”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Mhairi 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Mary, from Hebrew meaning “bitter” or “beloved”. (Pronounced “VAR-ee”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Morag 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic diminutive of Mór, meaning “great” or “big”. (Pronounced “MOR-ak”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Muireall 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic name meaning “bright sea” or “sea-bright”. (Pronounced “MYUR-ul”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Seonaid 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish Gaelic form of Janet or Joan, meaning “God is gracious”. (Pronounced “SHON-a”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Senga 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Scottish name created by reversing “Agnes”, which means “pure” or “holy”. (Pronounced “SENG-ga”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

Struana 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

• Name meaning: Feminine form of Struan, from Scottish Gaelic “sruthán” meaning “stream”. (Pronounced “stroo-AN-a”)
• Popularity: This name isn’t ranking.

FAQs about Irish and Scottish names

• Why are Irish and Scottish names so often confused?
• How can I tell whether a name is Irish or Scottish?
• Gaelic vs. Celtic: What’s the Difference?

Why are Irish and Scottish names so often confused?

You’re not alone if you tend to mix up Irish and Scottish names!

Here’s why this happens…

Shared Celtic Roots

• Both Irish and Scottish names often originate from Gaelic languages.
• Irish Gaelic and Scottish Gaelic are closely related, and many names sound similar or share common elements because they derive from a shared Celtic linguistic tradition.

Historical Interconnection

• Ireland and Scotland have a deep history of cultural and familial exchange.
• During the early medieval period, the Gaelic Kingdom of Dalriada spanned parts of both Ireland and Scotland, further blending their naming traditions.
• Migration and intermarriage between the two regions blurred distinctions over time, leading to the spread of names across both cultures.

Anglicization of Gaelic Names

• Many Irish and Scottish names were Anglicized to make them easier for English speakers to pronounce.
• This process often stripped away the distinct markers of Irish or Scottish origin, making it harder to determine the name’s roots.

Lack of Awareness of Regional Variants

• Some names have both Irish and Scottish variants.
• Eilidh (Scottish Gaelic) and Eilís (Irish Gaelic) both derive from the name Elizabeth but are specific to their regions.
• Fiona is widely considered Scottish, but it is sometimes mistakenly attributed to Ireland.
• The names are often misattributed when websites or sources fail to note the distinctions between these variants.

Popular Culture and Romanticization

• Media, literature, and pop culture sometimes conflate Irish and Scottish traditions for storytelling purposes.
• Movies, novels, and websites may market names as generically “Celtic,” muddying the origins of specific names.
• The romanticized notion of “Celtic” heritage has also led to some creative liberties in attributing names to Ireland or Scotland.

How can I tell whether a name is Irish or Scottish?

Gaelic vs. Celtic: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse “Gaelic” and “Celtic,” but understanding their relationship helps clarify how they influence Irish and Scottish names.

Celtic is a big umbrella. It refers to an ancient group of people and cultures that spread across Europe, including Ireland and Scotland.

Gaelic is a smaller branch under that umbrella. It specifically refers to the languages and traditions of the Celtic people in Ireland and Scotland.

Irish Gaelic is the language of Ireland, and Scottish Gaelic is the language of Scotland.

When we talk about Irish and Scottish names, many come from these Gaelic languages, which are part of the larger Celtic heritage.

In short: all Gaelic names are Celtic, but not all Celtic names are Gaelic.

Middle name ideas

The first names on this list are of Irish or Scottish origin. The middle names are from all over!

A

• Aileen Rylan
• Ainsley Pearl
• Aislinn Lavender
• Allison Noelle
• Ansley Virginia
• Ashlyn Blair

B

• Blair Evangeline
• Blake Magnolia
• Blakely Adeline
• Brennan Aria
• Brianna Rose
• Bridget Emberly

C

• Camden Emberly
• Camryn Lilianna
• Casey Arabella
• Cassidy Faye
• Ciara Lily
• Collins Avery

D

• Darcy Hannah
• Deirdra Hart
• Delaney Blake
• Drew Emmeline

E

• Edana Jade
• Enya Madison
• Erin Reese

F

• Fallon Alexandra
• Finley Paige
• Fiona Madelyn

H

• Hailey Sage

I

• Imogen Mia
• Ireland Blake

K

• Kara Lacey
• Karsyn Ruby
• Kennedy Paige
• Kenzie Harlow
• Kiara Aubrey
• Kiera Addilyn
• Kyle Alexandria
• Kylie Hazel

K

• Lainey Maribelle
• Lana Mirabella
• Lennon Hailey
• Lennox Hadley
• Logan Maisie

M

• Mackenzie Grace
• Maeve Abigail
• Maisie Piper
• McKenna Brooke
• Mckinley Brooke
• Mina Julianna
• Muriel Violet
• Murphy Belle

N

• Nessa Blakely
• Nola Evelyn
• Nolana Belle
• Nolen Everly
• Nora Everleigh

O

• Orla Blakely

P

• Paisley Elise

Q

• Quinn Hartley

R

• Reagan Scarlett
• Riley Jade
• Rory Mackenzie
• Rowan Waverly
• Ryann Charlotte

S

• Saoirse Olivia
• Scotlynn Reese
• Shay Evangeline
• Siobhan Embry
• Sloane Isabella

T

• Tallulah Eve
• Tara Lennon
• Tarryn Emerald
• Teagan Lennox
• Tierney Harlow

W

• Wilma Violet

More baby names for girls:

• 100 Perfect 4-Syllable Girl Names
• 150 Magnificent Royal Girl Names for 2025
  
• 250 Winter Names for Girls [Cold Weather + Winter Holidays]
• Girl Names Sorted By Syllable (2025 Edition with 500+ Names)

The source for popularity data is SSN.

This article was originally published on Mar 11, 2022 and was updated on Dec 31, 2024.

Irish Girl Names + Scottish Girl Names