Common Scottish Names: A Comprehensive Guide

This article will explore the fascinating world of common Scottish names, delving into their rich history and meanings. From the rugged highlands to the bustling cities, Scotland boasts a heritage that resonates through its unique naming traditions. We will uncover the origins, significance, and cultural context behind popular Scottish names, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and enduring legacy of this proud nation.
1. **Alistair**: "Defender of mankind" or "noble protector"
2. **Angus**: "One strength" or "single strength"
3. **Archie**: "Truly brave" or "genuine defender"
4. **Cameron**: "Crooked nose" or "bent nose" (referring to a geographical feature)
5. **Callum**: "Dove" or "columba"
6. **Craig**: "Rock" or "stone"
7. **Daniel**: "God is my judge"
8. **Duncan**: "Dark warrior" or "brown warrior"
9. **Ewan**: "Born of the yew tree" or "young warrior"
10. **Fraser**: "From the strawberry field"
11. **Gordon**: "Hill fort" or "large hill"
12. **Hamish**: "Supplanter" or "he who is like God"
13. **Iain**: "God is gracious"
14. **James**: "Supplanter" or "he who follows"
15. **Jamie**: "Supplanter" or "he who follows" (a shortened form of James)
16. **John**: "God is gracious"
17. **Kieran**: "Little dark one" or "little black one"
18. **Lachlan**: "Land of lakes" or "lake dwellers"
19. **Lewis**: "Famous warrior"
20. **Liam**: "Strong-willed warrior" or "determined warrior"
21. **Logan**: "Hollow" or "small valley"
22. **MacGregor**: "Son of Gregor"
23. **Malcolm**: "Devotee of St. Columba"
24. **Mark**: "Warrior" or "man of Mars"
25. **Matthew**: "Gift of God"
26. **Michael**: "Who is like God?"
27. **Murray**: "Sea warrior" or "man of the sea"
28. **Neil**: "Champion" or "cloud"
29. **Oliver**: "Olive tree"
30. **Peter**: "Stone" or "rock"
31. **Rhys**: "Ardour" or "fiery"
32. **Ross**: "Headland" or "promontory"
33. **Ryan**: "Little king" or "small king"
34. **Scott**: "From Scotland" or "Scotsman"
35. **Sean**: "God is gracious" (Irish form of John)
36. **Stuart**: "Steward" or "keeper"
37. **Thomas**: "Twin"
38. **William**: "Willful protector" or "resolute protector"
39. **Alan**: "Handsome" or "beautiful"
40. **Andrew**: "Strong and manly" or "brave"
41. **David**: "Beloved"
42. **Evan**: "Young warrior" or "born of the yew tree"
43. **George**: "Farmer" or "earth worker"
44. **Gregor**: "Vigilant" or "watchful"
45. **Kenneth**: "Handsome" or "born of fire"
46. **Martin**: "Warrior of Mars"
47. **Robert**: "Bright fame" or "shining glory"
48. **Stephen**: "Crown" or "wreath"
49. **Alexander**: "Defender of mankind"
50. **Christopher**: "Bearing Christ"