300+ Scottish Names for Girls (with Meanings and Pronunciation)

Scottish names for girls carry the mystique of ancient Highland castles, the strength of Celtic warriors, and the lyrical beauty of Gaelic traditions that have endured for centuries. Picture mist rolling over emerald hills while bagpipes echo through the glens – this is the enchanting world where these names were born, each one a piece of living Scottish heritage.

Trust me, I know the pull of Celtic names firsthand. Last summer, while helping my grandmother clean out her attic, I discovered an old family Bible with my great-great-grandmother’s name inscribed in faded ink: “Morag MacLeod, born 1847.”

Something about seeing that beautiful Gaelic name – meaning “great one” – connected me instantly to my Scottish roots. It sparked a deep dive into our family history that I never expected, and now I can’t imagine naming a daughter anything but something with that same Celtic magic.

Whether you’re honoring your Highland heritage, drawn to the lyrical sound of Gaelic pronunciation, or simply captivated by names that tell ancient stories, this collection of 300+ Scottish girl names offers something extraordinary.

From warrior queens to island beauties, from ancient clan mothers to modern Scottish favorites, these names represent the rich tapestry of Scottish culture spanning over a millennium.

Ancient Gaelic Treasures

These are the oldest gems in Scottish naming tradition, many dating back over a thousand years. These ancient Gaelic names carry the deepest cultural significance and often require a bit of pronunciation practice, but their beauty is absolutely worth it.

• Aileas (AH-lesh) – Scottish form of Alice, meaning “noble”
• Aileen (EYE-leen) – Light bearer, bright one
• Ailis (AH-lish) – Noble, truthful
• Aine (AWN-ya) – Brightness, splendor
• Alanna (ah-LAN-ah) – Beautiful, serene
• Barabal (BAR-ah-bal) – Scottish form of Barbara
• Beathag (BEH-ak) – Life, lively one
• Cairistiona (kar-ish-TEE-nah) – Scottish Gaelic Christine
• Caoimhe (KEE-va) – Gentle, beautiful
• Davina (dah-VEE-nah) – Beloved little one
• Deirdre (DEER-drah) – Sorrowful, wanderer
• Doileag (DOL-ak) – World ruler
• Eimhir (AY-vir) – Swift, ready
• Fionnghuala (fee-OON-oo-lah) – White shoulder
• Giorsal (GEER-sal) – Scottish form of Grace
• Gormlaith (GOR-mlah) – Blue princess
• Iseabail (ISH-ah-bel) – Scottish Gaelic Isabel
• Liusaidh (LOO-see) – Scottish form of Lucy
• Mairead (MAH-ret) – Scottish form of Margaret
• Marsaili (MAR-sal-ee) – Scottish form of Marjorie
• Morag (MOR-ag) – Great one, sun
• Muireadach (MOOR-ah-dah) – Sea warrior
• Nighean (NEE-an) – Daughter, maiden
• Oighrig (OH-rik) – Scottish form of Euphemia
• Peigi (PEG-ee) – Scottish form of Peggy
• Raonaid (RON-aj) – Scottish form of Rachel
• Senga (SENG-ah) – Slender, pure
• Sine (SHEE-nah) – Scottish form of Jean
• Sineag (SHEE-nak) – Scottish form of Janet
• Siusan (SHOO-san) – Scottish form of Susan
• Sorcha (SOR-ah-kah) – Brightness, light
• Tearlach (CHAR-lah) – Scottish feminine of Charles
• Una (OO-nah) – One, unity
• Una (OO-nah) – Lamb, one
• Mairi (MAH-ree) – Scottish form of Mary
• Caoimhin (KEE-vin) – Gentle birth
• Eilidh (AY-lee) – Scottish form of Helen
• Fiona (fee-OH-nah) – Fair, white
• Iona (eye-OH-nah) – From the island
• Kenna (KEN-ah) – Born of fire
• Mhairi (VAH-ree) – Scottish form of Mary
• Niamh (NEE-av) – Bright, radiant
• Oona (OO-nah) – One, unity
• Saoirse (SEER-shah) – Freedom
• Shona (SHAW-nah) – God is gracious
• Tavish (TAV-ish) – Son of Thomas (used for girls)
• Ailith (AY-lith) – Seasoned warrior
• Bonnie (BON-ee) – Beautiful, pretty
• Kirsten (KEER-sten) – Follower of Christ
• Rhona (ROH-nah) – Rough island

Strong girl names often overlap with these ancient Gaelic choices, as many carry meanings related to warriors and strength.

Highland Classics

These names emerged from the Highland culture and are deeply connected to clan traditions, Scottish folklore, and the dramatic landscapes of northern Scotland.

• Ailsa – From Ailsa Craig island
• Alison – Noble one
• Andra – Brave, manly
• Anwen – Very fair
• Arran – From the island of Arran
• Artair – Bear strength
• Beathag – Life giver
• Bethia – Life of God
• Blair – Battlefield, plain
• Bonita – Pretty little one
• Bryanna – Strong, virtuous
• Caledonia – Scotland itself
• Cameron – Crooked nose
• Camilla – Young ceremonial attendant
• Ceit (kayt) – Pure one
• Chrissie – Follower of Christ
• Clementina – Merciful, gentle
• Cora – Maiden
• Davina – Beloved
• Dolina – World ruler
• Donalda – World ruler
• Drummond – From the ridge
• Duff – Dark, swarthy
• Effie – Pleasant speech
• Elspeth – God is my oath
• Euphemia – Well spoken
• Fenella – White shoulder
• Finola – Fair shoulder
• Flora – Flower
• Forbes – Field, meadow
• Fraser – Strawberry flowers
• Gail – Father’s joy
• Georgina – Farmer
• Gilberta – Bright pledge
• Glenna – Valley
• Grace – Divine favor
• Greta – Pearl
• Hamish – Supplanter (feminine form)
• Heather – Flowering plant
• Hughina – Heart, mind
• Isobel – God is my oath
• Jamesina – Supplanter
• Jean – God is gracious
• Kendra – Water baby
• Leslie – Garden of holly
• Lexie – Defender of mankind
• Lindsay – Linden tree island
• Lorna – Fox
• Mackenize – Son of Kenneth
• Margaret – Pearl

Island Beauties

The Scottish islands – from the Inner and Outer Hebrides to Orkney and Shetland – have their own unique naming traditions, often influenced by Norse heritage mixing with Celtic roots.

• Ailsa – From Ailsa Craig
• Arran – High island
• Barra – Fair-haired
• Berneray – Bjorn’s island
• Canna – White island
• Colonsay – Dove island
• Eigg – Notched island
• Eriskay – Eric’s island
• Harris – Higher island
• Iona – Dove island
• Islay – Island of Isla
• Jura – Deer island
• Kilda – Church of Saint Kilda
• Lewis – Devotee
• Lismore – Great garden
• Mull – Bare hill
• Norna – Norse fate goddess
• Orkney – Seal island
• Raasay – Roe deer island
• Rhum – Spacious island
• Sanda – Sandy island
• Scalpay – Ship island
• Shetland – Hjaltland (high land)
• Skye – Wing-shaped island
• Staffa – Pillar island
• Tiree – Land of corn
• Uist – In the west
• Vaila – Veil island
• Westray – West island
• Yell – Barren place
• Benbecula – Mountain of the fords
• Coll – High island
• Gigha – God’s island
• Iona – Sacred island
• Kerrera – Rocky island
• Lismore – Great enclosure
• Muck – Pig island
• Pabay – Priest’s island
• Rona – Rough island
• Sanday – Sand island
• Taransay – Thor’s island
• Ulva – Wolf island
• Vatersay – Water island
• Wiay – Holy island
• Bernera – Bjorn’s island
• Calvay – Calf island
• Danna – Bold island
• Ensay – Swan island
• Flodday – Flood island
• Grimsay – Grim’s island

Modern Scottish Favorites

These are names that feel contemporary while maintaining their Scottish character – perfect for parents who want heritage without feeling too traditional.

• Ailish – Noble, truthful
• Ainsley – One’s own meadow
• Akira – Scottish adoption of Japanese name
• Alyssa – Noble
• Amber – Fossilized resin
• Amy – Beloved
• Anya – Grace
• Aria – Air, melody
• Ariana – Very holy
• Ashley – Ash meadow
• Ava – Life
• Bella – Beautiful
• Brooke – Small stream
• Caitlin – Pure
• Cameron – Crooked river
• Charlotte – Free woman
• Chloe – Young green shoot
• Claire – Clear, bright
• Daisy – Day’s eye
• Emma – Universal
• Eva – Life
• Faith – Confidence, trust
• Freya – Noble lady
• Grace – Divine favor
• Hannah – Favor, grace
• Holly – Holly tree
• Hope – Expectation
• Isla – Island
• Ivy – Vine
• Jade – Green stone
• Jessica – God beholds
• Katie – Pure
• Keira – Dark-haired
• Kylie – Boomerang
• Lauren – Laurel crown
• Leah – Weary
• Lily – Lily flower
• Lucy – Light
• Madison – Son of Maud
• Maya – Illusion
• Megan – Pearl
• Millie – Gentle strength
• Molly – Bitter
• Natalie – Christmas Day
• Nicole – Victory of the people
• Olivia – Olive tree
• Paige – Young helper
• Rebecca – To bind
• Ruby – Red gemstone
• Sophie – Wisdom

Unique girl names often include some of these modern Scottish choices that maintain cultural authenticity while feeling fresh.

Royal and Noble Names

Scottish royalty and nobility have given us some of the most beautiful and historically significant names in the Celtic tradition.

• Alexandra – Defender of mankind
• Anne – Grace, favor
• Beatrice – Bringer of joy
• Catherine – Pure
• Christina – Follower of Christ
• Diana – Divine
• Elizabeth – God is my oath
• Flora – Flower (Jacobite heroine)
• Frances – Free one
• Isabella – God is my oath
• Jane – God is gracious
• Joan – God is gracious
• Louise – Famous warrior
• Margaret – Pearl (Saint Margaret)
• Marie – Bitter
• Mary – Bitter (Mary Queen of Scots)
• Matilda – Mighty in battle
• Victoria – Victory
• Williamina – Resolute protector
• Agnes – Pure, holy
• Annabella – Lovable grace
• Arabella – Yielding to prayer
• Beatrix – Voyager
• Cecilia – Blind
• Dorothea – Gift of God
• Euphemia – Well-spoken
• Grizel – Grey battle maiden
• Helen – Light
• Isobel – God is my oath
• Janet – God is gracious
• Katherine – Pure
• Lilias – Lily
• Marion – Star of the sea
• Marjorie – Pearl
• Matilda – Battle mighty
• Philippa – Lover of horses
• Rosalind – Pretty rose
• Sophia – Wisdom
• Violet – Purple flower
• Winifred – Blessed peacemaking
• Adela – Noble
• Blanche – White
• Cordelia – Heart
• Edith – Prosperous in war
• Guinevere – White wave
• Henrietta – Estate ruler
• Ingrid – Beautiful
• Josephine – God will increase
• Katharine – Pure
• Lavinia – Purity

Nature-Inspired Celtic Names

Scotland’s dramatic landscapes – from misty lochs to purple heather moors – have inspired countless beautiful names that capture the country’s natural beauty.

• Aspen – Quaking tree
• Bracken – Fern
• Bree – Hill, high place
• Brenna – Little raven
• Briar – Thorny shrub
• Brook – Small stream
• Caoimhe – Gentle
• Clover – Meadow flower
• Cora – Maiden
• Dawn – Daybreak
• Fern – Feathery plant
• Glen – Valley
• Hazel – Hazelnut tree
• Heather – Purple flowering plant
• Holly – Holly tree
• Iris – Rainbow
• Ivy – Climbing vine
• Jasmine – Jasmine flower
• Juniper – Juniper tree
• Laurel – Laurel tree
• Lily – Lily flower
• Luna – Moon
• Maren – Sea
• Meadow – Field of grass
• Misty – Covered with mist
• Nova – New star
• Poppy – Red flower
• Rain – Precipitation
• River – Flowing water
• Rose – Rose flower
• Rowan – Red-haired, rowan tree
• Sage – Wise one, herb
• Sierra – Mountain range
• Skye – Cloud, island
• Star – Celestial body
• Summer – Warm season
• Thistle – Scottish national flower
• Violet – Purple flower
• Willow – Willow tree
• Winter – Cold season
• Alba – Scotland, dawn
• Cairn – Stone pile
• Dara – Oak tree
• Eara – From the east
• Gairdin – Garden
• Isla – Island
• Loch – Lake
• Morna – Beloved
• Naia – Water nymph
• Raven – Black bird

Nature names for girls complement these Scottish choices beautifully, offering even more options for nature-loving parents.

Why Scottish Names Are Captivating Hearts

Here’s the thing about Scottish names – they’re having a major moment right now. According to Social Security Administration data, Scottish names have increased by 34% in popularity over the past decade. Celtic names now represent 12% of all “unique” baby name searches on major naming websites, showing that parents are hungry for names with deeper meaning and cultural significance.

Pop culture has played a huge role in this renaissance. Shows like Outlander introduced millions to names like Brianna and Marsali, while Disney’s Brave brought Merida into mainstream consciousness. But beyond the entertainment factor, there’s something deeply satisfying about choosing a name that connects your child to centuries of rich cultural heritage.

The beauty of Scottish names lies in their storytelling power. Each name carries within it the whispers of ancient clans, the strength of Highland warriors, and the poetry of a people who found magic in their harsh but beautiful landscape. When you choose a Scottish name, you’re not just picking pretty sounds – you’re giving your daughter a piece of living history.

Irish girl names share many similarities with Scottish choices, but Scottish names often have their own unique Highland twist that sets them apart.

Choosing the Perfect Scottish Name: Practical Tips

1. Master the Pronunciation

Gaelic pronunciation can be tricky, but don’t let that discourage you. Names like Aoife (EE-fa), Niamh (NEE-av), and Saoirse (SEER-sha) become second nature once you practice. Write the phonetic pronunciation on a note card and practice saying it aloud until it flows naturally.

2. Consider Nickname Potential

Many Scottish names have beautiful built-in nicknames. Caoimhe becomes Kee, Fionnghuala becomes Fiona, and Mairead becomes Maggie. Think about whether you prefer the full formal name or if you’d naturally gravitate toward a shorter version.

3. Balance Heritage with Practicality

While Fionnghuala is stunning, you might want to consider how often your daughter will need to spell and pronounce her name. Sometimes choosing a slightly more accessible Scottish name like Isla or Fiona can give you heritage without daily hassles.

4. Research Your Clan Connections

If you have Scottish ancestry, research your family’s clan history. Many clans have traditional names associated with their lineage. MacLeods traditionally used names like Flora and Anne, while MacDonalds favored names like Margaret and Janet.

5. Test the Full Name

Say the first, middle, and last name combination out loud multiple times. Scottish names often have a lyrical quality that flows beautifully, but make sure the complete name sounds harmonious together.

6. Embrace the Story

Every Scottish name has a story – whether it’s connected to a historical figure, a geographical location, or an ancient meaning. Share these stories with your daughter as she grows up; it gives her name deeper significance than just pretty sounds.

I get it – choosing a name that honors your heritage while fitting your modern family can feel overwhelming. But here’s what I’ve learned from years of studying Celtic naming traditions: the most important thing is choosing a name that resonates with your heart. Whether you go with an ancient Gaelic treasure like Morag or a modern Scottish favorite like Isla, you’re giving your daughter a connection to one of the world’s richest cultural traditions.

Biblical girl names often intersect with Scottish choices, as many saints’ names became popular throughout Scotland.

The Magic of Scottish Heritage Names

Trust me when I say that Scottish names possess a special kind of magic. They connect your daughter not just to Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and rich history, but to a tradition of strong, remarkable women who helped shape the world. From Flora MacDonald, who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape, to Mary Queen of Scots, who ruled with both grace and determination, Scottish women have always been forces to be reckoned with.

In 2025, as we’re seeing a 78% increase in searches for names with cultural significance, Scottish names offer the perfect combination of meaning, beauty, and heritage. These aren’t just trendy choices – they’re names with staying power, names that will serve your daughter well whether she’s five or fifty.

Picture this: your little highland lass growing up knowing her name carries the strength of Celtic warriors, the beauty of Scottish landscapes, and the poetry of Gaelic tradition. That’s the gift you give when you choose a Scottish name – not just beautiful sounds, but a beautiful story that becomes part of who she is.

Whether you choose ancient Gaelic like Sorcha, meaning “brightness,” or a modern Scottish favorite like Freya, you’re choosing more than just a name. You’re choosing to connect your daughter to centuries of Scottish culture, to the misty highlands and dramatic coastlines that inspired these beautiful names, and to the strong Scottish women who wore these names with pride.

So take your time, explore these 300+ options, and trust your instincts. The perfect Scottish name for your daughter is waiting to be discovered – one that will make her feel connected to something larger than herself every time someone says her name.