16 'rare' Scottish baby names that were used only a few times in 2024
Hardly ever used in Scotland, these uncommon names all deserve a comeback.
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'.
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