Scottish names have many influences, including English, Celtic, and Gaelic languages. Are you looking for a Scottish name for your baby? Look no further. This page will teach you everything you need to know about Scottish names. It will also provide you with a wide selection of Scottish names to choose from.
Influences of Scottish Names
The English language has been spoken in Scotland for several centuries now. It took the form of “Scots,” the English spoken in the country. Because of this, many new Scottish names have been coined in English instead of the traditional Gaelic. Male names like Alpin (white), Ewan (born of the yew), Nevin (saint), and female names such as Morna (beloved) and Dona (world-mighty), have been all coined in English instead of Gaelic by Scots speakers.
The Gaelic or Goidelic languages are a part of a dialect continuum that stretches from the south of Ireland to the north of Scotland. Gaelic is generally divided into Manx, Scottish Gaelic, and Irish. Traditional Scottish Gaelic names are difficult to pronounce. Unless you live in Scotland, it's impractical to give your child a traditional Scottish Gaelic name.
Scottish Surnames as First Names?
Scottish surnames can be divided into two categories: surnames from the highlands and surnames from the lowlands. Scottish surnames from the highlands were influenced by clans. Highlanders pledged their allegiance to clans by adopting their surnames. Examples of these are: Campbell, Munro, Drummond, Buchanan, Macduff, Macgregor and Mackintosh. Surnames from the lowlands are heavily influenced by English names. Examples include: Ross, Cameron, and Stewart.
You may have noticed that Scottish surnames sound really nice. Many Scottish surnames today are used as first names such as Brody and Mackenzie --- two Scottish surnames that are very popular first names in the United States. You too can choose a Scottish surname for the first name of your baby. Consider the following: Aiken (descendant of Adam), Carmichael (servant of St. Michael), Irving (green, fresh water), Macintosh (son of the chief), Imray (work, rule), and Leith (wet).
Choosing a Scottish Name for Your Baby
You'll find a lot of unique names in the Scottish Gaelic language for your baby. Remember though that it is your child who has to carry this name. Make sure that your child will be proud of his Scottish name. Weigh beauty and practicality on one hand and uniqueness on the other. The best Scottish name is one that is unique but at the same time, easy to pronounce and nice to hear.
If you have a baby boy, you may find these traditional Scottish Gaelic names special: Artair (bear or stone), Branan (raven), Catan (small cat), Solas (joy, comfort), Gordan (super fort), and Faolan (wolf). If the new addition to your family is a girl, consider the names: Dearbhail (true desire), Ros (rose flower), Dolidh and Dearshul (true eye or tearful eye), and Sorcha (brightness, light).
Scottish Names and their Meanings
Aside from traditional Gaelic names, there are other Scottish names that are simpler to pronounce. The following are wonderful names for a baby boy: Blane (yellow), Calum (dove), Lachlan (Viking), Rory (red king), Finlay (white warrior), and Donnan (brown). For a baby girl, consider the following: Alva (rock plain), Bethia (oath of God), Fenella (fair shoulders), Jinty (God is gracious), Mairi (complete), and Lilias (lily flower).
Experiment with name combinations until you come up with the right one. It's also advisable not to make your child's name too long.
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