16 'rare' Scottish baby names that were used only a few times in 2024
All over Scotland, you will come across people with all kinds of names. From classic picks to one-of-a-kind monikers, a name can tell you a lot about a person.
When it comes to choosing a name for your own little one, the pressure can be overwhelming. While many people prefer traditional Scottish names, others want their baby to have a truly unique name.
The National Records of Scotland previously shared a list of all of the baby names that were used in 2024. The non-ministerial department of the Scottish Government also revealed how many times each moniker was used during the year.
The Daily Record has rounded up 16 names that were used just three times each in 2024. With the most popular picks last year—Noah and Olivia—being used hundreds of times last year, they offer a much more distinctive alternative.
National Records of Scotland website.
1. Clyde
Unlike many of the names on this list, Clyde actually has Scottish origins. The boys' name is derived from the River Clyde that flows through Glasgow, and was originally used to refer to those who lived on its banks.
2. Cece
The beautiful girls' name Cece has both Latin and Italian roots, and is a shortened version of the name Cecelia. Coming from the Latin word 'caecus', it means 'blind' and is associated with virtue of faith.
3. Cash
The boys' name Cash has both English and Irish origins, and was originally exclusively a surname. It derives from the Middle English word 'casche', and means 'maker of chests' or 'box maker'.
4. Sage
There are multiple possible origins of the gender-neutral name Sage, with potential roots in France, England, and Germany. It also has a range of potential meanings, ranging from 'wise' and 'prophet' to 'safe'.
5. Gene
Gene is another gender-neutral name, though it is more commonly used for boys. German and Greek in origin, it means 'well-born' or 'noble'.
6. Percy
Percy is a masculine name with Norman roots, being brought over from Normandy to the United Kingdom. It means 'one who pierces the valley', although another possible meaning is 'spirit of battle'.
7. Dolcie
Pronounced 'DOLL-see', Dolcie is a girls' name that is a modern variation of the Latin name Dulce. It means 'sweet', 'pleasant', or 'sweet one'.
8. Tallulah
Tallulah is a lovely name of Native American heritage, and is usually used for girls. It is said to come from the Choctaw tribe, and means 'leaping water' or 'lady of abundance'.
9. Helena
The feminine name Helena has a rich history, originating from Greek mythology. It means 'torch', 'bright one', or 'shining light'.
10. Briar
Briar has English roots, and comes from the Middle English word for a thorny bush. Originally used to refer to people who lived near spiky plants, it has connotations of nature and resilience.
11. Keelan
The boys' name Keelan comes from Ireland, and is an anglicised version of the traditional Gaelic name Caolán. It means 'slim', 'slender', and 'fair'.
12. Elowen
Elowen is believed to have both Celtic and Cornish roots, and is usually used as a girls' name. It comes from 'elm', and means 'loved' or 'beautiful'.
13. Lawrie
Lawrie is another traditional Scottish name, though was originally a surname. It is thought to come from the more common name Lawrence, and means 'crafty' or 'foxy'.
14. Roxy
Roxy is a beautiful girls' name that is a shortened version of the name Roxanne. Persian in origin, it means 'dawn', 'bright', or 'star'.
15. Salma
This is a feminine name that is believed to have Arabic and Hebrew roots, and is thought to be a version of the names Salāma or Salam. It means 'peaceful' or 'safe', and has connotations of harmony and tranquility.
16. Leland
Leland is an English name that comes from the Middle English words 'lea' and 'land'. It means 'meadow land' or 'fallow land'.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scotsman
2 hours ago
- Scotsman
The Scottish lighthouse built by Robert Louis Stevenson's family on sale for £350,000
A historic lighthouse in Shetland built by the father and brother of Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson is up for sale, with an asking price of over £350,000. The iconic lighthouse, on the island of Bressay on the east side of Shetland, has stood for over 160 years. Now, the Shetland Amenity Trust, the local heritage charity which has owned the complex since 1995, is looking for a new custodian for the B-listed landmark. It said was no longer able to look after the building due to rising costs, and made the decision to part with the lighthouse following a 'careful and lengthy' period of consultation with the local community. The lighthouse was built in 1858 by engineers David and Thomas Stevenson, who were the father and brother of writer Robert Louis Stevenson, best known for his classic novel Treasure Island. It served to guide vessels safely through Bressay Sound, the sheltered channel separating Bressay from Lerwick. Although the light was automated in 1987 and is no longer essential to modern navigation, the site remains an important symbol of Shetland's maritime history. In April 2022, the Shetland Amenity Trust invited expressions of interest from community groups and private individuals, exploring a range of potential uses for the lighthouse complex. However, no final agreement was made. The trust said its priority throughout has been to secure a sustainable future for the site - whether through community-led initiatives or private ownership. Shetland Amenity Trust chair Alison Moncrieff said the lighthouse holds a 'special place in Shetland's story'. 'While it's been a difficult decision to part with the building, we believe this is the right moment to invite new energy and investment to help it thrive again,' she said. 'Rising costs and financial pressures mean the Trust is no longer able to care for the lighthouse in the way it deserves, but we are excited by the possibilities that lie ahead. 'We're hopeful that a new owner will bring fresh vision and commitment to restore and reimagine the site, ensuring it can be enjoyed for years to come. 'We are grateful to the Directors of Bressay Development Ltd for their thoughtful work exploring a community-led solution. Although this was not feasible in the end, their dedication shows the deep value placed on the site.' Any restoration or development will require permission from Historic Environment Scotland, and works must use traditional materials and techniques appropriate to the lighthouse's listed status. The property listing on Savills says the lighthouse complex comprises several buildings, including the original lighthouse tower, two former keepers' cottages, a former engine room, and an artist's residence and studio. It said the former keepers' cottages and outbuildings have been adapted to support the Bressay Lighthouse artists' residency, offering accommodation and studio space to visiting artists. It said the east and west cottages were previously in use as holiday lets. Bressay is an island located to the east of Shetland capital town Lerwick, with the ferry crossing taking less than ten minutes. The lighthouse is located at Kirkabister Ness, on the southwestern tip of the island. 1 . View of the lighthouse The lighthouse is located at Kirkabister Ness, on the southwestern tip of the island of Bressay, in Shetland | Savills Photo Sales 2 . Bird's Eye View The complex comprises the original lighthouse tower, two former keepers' cottages, a former engine room, and an artist's residence and studio | Savills Photo Sales 3 . View from the lighthouse The lighthouse looks out across the water to mainland Shetland, which is only a ten minute ferry ride away | Savills Photo Sales 4 . Inside the lighthouse A spiral staircase leads up to the top of the lighthouse | Savills Photo Sales
The National
3 hours ago
- The National
Watch as I try the viral Irn-Bru and espresso drink
Gaining tens of thousands of views online, the concoction has really divided opinion, with some people branding it 'rank' and others 'lovely'. As an avid Irn-Bru drinker and also a fan of the odd espresso, I knew I just had to give it a go after being sent videos of other people trying it online by multiple friends. I also knew I just had to get my National colleagues involved. The concept is simple, mix an espresso with some Irn-Bru in a glass, but in my over-exuberance, I made the fatal error in adding the soft juice before the coffee, which resulted in a rush of foam shooting all over my boss's desk. Sorry, Callum. READ MORE: One million young Scots can shape our route to independence. Don't waste it With the minor foam mishap behind me, my first impression was that it looked almost like a cola float, which I used to enjoy as a child while visiting beach cafes on the east coast. The bright orange of the Irn-Bru quickly dissolved into the dark brown of the coffee, but left a slight red tinge to the drink once it was fully mixed. It took me a few seconds to register what I was tasting. First the coffee, then the Irn-Bru, and then the coffee again. Once my tastebuds and brain were on the same wavelength, I came to the realisation that I actually quite liked it. In fact, my second gulp of the drink quickly followed as it was almost more-ish. The smell had a strong whiff of coffee, but he sweet bubblegum-esque flavour of the Irn-Bru still managed to pierce through. The espresso seemed to decarbonate the Irn-Bru, probably the explosion of foam to be fair, so it was a much smoother drink than the usually bubbly feeling of the soft drink. As much as I liked it, I was very much in the minority in the office. My colleague, Hamish, who must have refined tastebuds like mine, was also a fan. His verdict was that it was almost like drinking a Guinness. However, Hamish and I were alone in our enjoyment of this could be a new Scottish tradition. (Image: NQ) Both my editors were quick to say 'nope,' not for them, while one of my other colleagues branded it 'rank' along with a scrunched-up face. Marmitey would be the best way to describe it, I don't think it is something you can sit on the fence over, either you are going to love it or hate it. Perhaps some things are just best left separate.
Daily Record
4 hours ago
- Daily Record
9 dog breeds that don't stink for pet owners who want a fresh-scented home
Pooches have a reputation for smelling, but not all breeds will stink up your house. You may love to think you're a dog person - until it comes to the smell. While having a little fluffball to call your best friend is enticing, we're all aware that having a pooch can make your entire home smell like dog. However, not all dog breeds are created equal, and there are several types of pup that are known for smelling much less than their pongier counterparts. For those in the market for a dog that won't stink up the house, experts at Zerorez have rounded up a list of breeds that are known for smelling less than others. Ranging from small pups to big dugs, these pooches promise life-long companionship without the pong. So, here are nine dog breeds that are known for their mild scents. 9 dog breeds that don't smell 1. Coton De Tulear They may be super fluffy, but the Coton De Tulear certainly doesn't smell. Even when wet, these pooches aren't likely to give off an odour, and since they don't shed much, they're great for pet parents with allergies too. 2. Poodle Another great choice for those with allergies, a well-groomed poodle won't stink up the house. As long as they're brushed daily and taken for grooming every four - six weeks, your home will smell so fresh that visitors will be unaware you even have a dog. 3. Schnauzer This dog's wiry, softer topcoat requires extra grooming to prevent inner coat matting, and their high-maintenance makes them much less likely to smell. 4. Italian Greyhound For those after a low-maintenance dog with less odour, the Italian Greyhound is a perfect match. These pups don't shed much because of their short hair that doesn't need regular brushing. 5. Basenji Another low-maintenance choice for busy pet owners, Basenjis have hair, not fur. Light weekly brushing helps the coat oil spread evenly, preventing body odour and protecting your house from bad doggy smells. 6. Kerry Blue Terrier These self-sufficient dogs keep themselves clean, similarly to cats. But to make sure they're super pampered, this pooch's nails should be clipped every six weeks. 7. Bichon Frise Another complete fluffball, the Bichon Frise is unlikely to smell unless they haven't been properly groomed, or if they've contracted an ear, dental or skin infection. Brush them twice or three times a week to prevent matting and odour. 8. Portuguese Water Dog This non-shedding dog has less dander than other breeds, and so is another ideal option for those with allergies. Portuguese Water Dogs don't stink unless after a workout, being rained on, or rolling on mud, and they can be kept smelling fresh with regular brushing. 9. Chihuahua These little yappers won't smell unless they have an underlying health condition. Chihuahuas love attention, so they adore being brushed regularly which will keep their coat in top condition. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
