Names by culture & origin

Irish & Scottish baby names

Girls' names

Elsie Pledged to God (from Elizabeth) Isla Island — from the Isle of Islay Maeve She who intoxicates — legendary queen Niamh Bright, radiant Orla Golden princess

Boys' names

Cian Ancient, enduring Finn Fair, white — legendary hero Oscar Deer friend; spear of the gods Rafferty Abundance, prosperity Rory Red king Rowan Little red one; the rowan tree

Unisex names

Quinn Descendant of Conn — chief

Questions about Irish & Scottish names

What are popular Irish & Scottish baby names in the UK?

Cian, Elsie, Finn, Isla, Maeve, Niamh and more are Irish & Scottish names we cover, each with its meaning and origin explained.

Are Irish & Scottish names commonly used in England and Wales?

Yes — the UK is home to families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, and names of Irish & Scottish origin are in genuine use here. For official year-by-year popularity, see the ONS baby names statistics for England and Wales.

Explore more name origins, or browse the full Baby Name Finder.

Reviewed July 2026.