Scottish boys names are more than just names—they’re a reflection of Scotland’s rugged beauty, its rich history, and the strength of its people. Whether you’re drawn to Gaelic roots, names that echo the Highlands, or something modern with a Scottish twist, there’s a name here for every wee laddie.

As someone with Fraser clan roots, I’ve always felt connected to Scottish names. Growing up, I’d hear stories of my Grandad’s history and adventures in Fraserburgh and the traditions tied to our name.

These tales made me appreciate the cultural depth and meaning behind Scottish names—names that carry the legacy of clans, warriors, and poets.

I’d spent two summer holidays as a baby and young child in the Highlands, and even eloped with my now wife to Gretna Green, so you might say my roots run deep.

We’ve even got the kids singing “Ye Canny Shove Yer Granny Aff A Bus” and “Three craws sat upon a waw” is one of their favourite bedtime stories.

Enough about me, and on to the list!

We’ve collected 100+ Scottish baby boy names, sorted into categories like cool, traditional, short, and unique, each with detailed meanings, pronunciations, and origins.

You might also be interested in reading: Top Baby Boy Names: UK Trends for 2025

u

Cool Scottish Boy Names

These trendy and stylish Scottish boy names offer a blend of tradition and modernity.

1. Alpin (AL-pin)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “White”; historically linked to the Picts.
2. Arran (AIR-an)
   Origin: Isle of Arran
   Meaning: “Island dweller”; inspired by the scenic Isle of Arran, this name reflects Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and maritime culture.
3. Boyd (BOYD)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Blond”; a classic yet underused name for fair-haired individuals.
4. Cairn (KAYRN)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Pile of stones”; tied to Scotland’s landscapes.
5. Callan (CAL-an)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Rock”; symbolising strength and resilience.
6. Dougal (DOO-gal)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Dark stranger”; historically linked to the Norse settlers in Scotland.
7. Eoghan (OH-an)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Born of the yew tree”; symbolic of longevity.
8. Gregor (GREG-or)
   Origin: Clan Gregor
   Meaning: “Watchful”; tied to protective leaders.
9. Keir (KEER)
   Origin: Ayrshire
   Meaning: “Dark-skinned”; a name of individuality and mystery.
10. Kester (KES-ter)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Carrier of Christ”; a Scottish variation of Christopher.
11. Lachlan (LOCK-lan)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Land of lakes”; highlighting Scotland’s strong connection to its waterways and lochs.
12. Lorne (LORN)
    Origin: Argyll
    Meaning: “Fox”; tied to Scotland’s wildlife and heritage.
13. Maxwell (MAKS-well)
    Origin: Scottish Borders
    Meaning: “Great spring”; symbolising abundance and life.
14. Murray (MUR-ray)
    Origin: Moray, Scotland
    Meaning: “Seaboard settlement”; symbolising Scotland’s coastal heritage.
15. Nairn (NAIRN)
    Origin: Northern Scotland
    Meaning: “Alder tree”; a rare name associated with nature and growth.
16. Ruaridh (ROO-uh-ree)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Red-haired ruler”; combining leadership and striking appearance.
17. Sorley (SOR-lee)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Summer sailor”; linked to adventure, exploration, and the sea.
18. Tavish (TAV-ish)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Twin”; a soft yet distinctive name.
19. Torin (TOHR-in)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Chief” or “lord”; representing leadership and strength.
20. Torquil (TOR-kil)
    Origin: Norse-Scottish
    Meaning: “Thor’s cauldron”; blending Norse and Gaelic traditions, it reflects strength and mythology.

Traditional Scottish Boy Names

Time-honoured names that carry the legacy of Scotland’s rich history.

1. Aidan (AY-dan)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Little fire”; a name symbolising warmth and passion.
2. Alasdair (AL-uh-stair)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Defender of the people”; the Gaelic form of Alexander.
3. Andrew (AN-droo)
   Origin: Patron Saint of Scotland
   Meaning: “Manly”; tied to Saint Andrew, Scotland’s patron saint.
4. Archibald (AR-chi-bald)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Bold and genuine”; a name steeped in nobility.
5. Colin (KAW-lin)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Young cub”; a playful name with Celtic roots.
6. Conall (KON-al)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Strong wolf”; representing bravery and loyalty.
7. Donald (DON-uld)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “World ruler”; historically linked to leadership.
8. Duncan (DUN-can)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Dark warrior”; tied to courage and resilience.
9. Euan (YOO-an)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Born of the yew tree”; symbolising longevity and strength.
10. Finlay (FIN-lee)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Fair-haired hero”; a blend of beauty, bravery, and nobility.
11. Gregor (GREG-or)
    Origin: Clan Gregor
    Meaning: “Watchful”; tied to protective leaders.
12. Hamish (HAY-mish)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Supplanter”; the Scottish form of James.
13. Iain (EYE-an)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “God is gracious”; a classic name with religious undertones.
14. Kenneth (KEN-eth)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Handsome”; tied to Scottish kings and nobility.
15. Lennox (LEN-uks)
    Origin: Historic region in Scotland
    Meaning: “Place of elm trees”; reflecting a connection to nature.
16. Malcolm (MAL-kum)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Devotee of Saint Columba”; a name borne by many Scottish kings.
17. Murdoch (MUR-dock)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Protector of the sea”; historically tied to seafarers.
18. Ranald (RAN-uld)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Ruler’s advisor”; symbolising wisdom and guidance.
19. Tavish (TAV-ish)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Twin”; a rare and distinctive name.
20. Wilson (WIL-sun)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Son of Will”; a traditional surname-turned-first name.

Short Scottish Boy Names

Perfect for simplicity and elegance, these names are easy to say yet deeply meaningful.

Short Scottish Boy Names

Perfect for simplicity and elegance, these names are easy to say yet deeply meaningful.

1. Alec (AL-ek)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Defender of the people”; a diminutive form of Alexander.
2. Ben (BEN)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Mountain peak”; inspired by Scotland’s iconic Ben Nevis.
3. Boyd (BOYD)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Blond”; historically descriptive of fair-haired individuals.
4. Clyde (KLYDE)
   Origin: River Clyde
   Meaning: “Warm and friendly”; tied to one of Scotland’s major rivers.
5. Ewan (YOU-in)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Born of the yew tree”; symbolising endurance and longevity.
6. Fife (FIFE)
   Origin: Kingdom of Fife
   Meaning: “Place name”; connected to Scotland’s historic region.
7. Glen (GLEN)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Valley”; serene and timeless, tied to Scotland’s natural beauty.
8. Innes (IN-is)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Island”; symbolising peace and solitude.
9. Keir (KEER)
   Origin: Ayrshire
   Meaning: “Dark-skinned”; a distinctive and bold name.
10. Kyle (KYLE)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Narrow strait”; tied to Scotland’s coastal geography.
11. Lee (LEE)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Sheltered meadow”; reflecting a connection to nature.
12. Lyle (LYLE)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Island”; linked to Scotland’s maritime culture.
13. Max (MAKS)
    Origin: Gaelic-Latin
    Meaning: “Greatest”; a short, bold, and timeless name.
14. Neil (NEEL)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Cloud”; symbolising calmness and elevation.
15. Ross (ROSS)
    Origin: Ross-shire
    Meaning: “Promontory”; rooted in Scotland’s geography.
16. Roy (ROY)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Red-haired”; historically used for striking individuals.
17. Sean (SHAWN)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “God is gracious”; a widely recognised and spiritual name.
18. Tait (TAYT)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Cheerful”; reflecting positivity and brightness.
19. Tor (TOR)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Tower or peak”; symbolising strength and protection.
20. Wray (RAY)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Corner of land”; tied to Scotland’s agricultural roots.

Unique Scottish Boy Names

For those seeking a distinctive name, these rare gems are full of character and depth. Some of these scream metal boy name to me.

1. Aulay (AW-lay)
   Origin: Norse-Scottish
   Meaning: “Ancestral relic”; a name of Norse origin, reflecting history and heritage.
2. Balfour (BAL-fur)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Village pasture”; tied to Scotland’s rural landscapes.
3. Cailean (KA-len)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Dove”; symbolising peace and harmony.
4. Cairn (KAYRN)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Pile of stones or memorial”; tied to Scottish landscapes and traditions.
5. Eoghan (OH-an)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Born of the yew tree”; symbolic of longevity and connection to nature.
6. Ferguson (FER-gus-un)
   Origin: Clan Ferguson
   Meaning: “Son of Fergus”; representing strength and leadership.
7. Gibson (GIB-sun)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Son of Gib”; a rare name symbolising legacy and heritage.
8. Lennox (LEN-uks)
   Origin: Historic region in Scotland
   Meaning: “Place of elm trees”; reflecting a connection to nature.
9. Logan (LOH-gun)
   Origin: Ayrshire
   Meaning: “Little hollow”; tied to geography and tranquillity.
10. Murdoch (MUR-dock)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Protector of the sea”; a name of seafarers and coastal defenders.
11. Nairn (NAIRN)
    Origin: Northern Scotland
    Meaning: “Alder tree”; associated with nature and growth.
12. Quinlan (KWIN-lan)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Descendant of Conn”; reflecting familial pride and legacy.
13. Ruaridh (ROO-uh-ree)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Red-haired ruler”; combining leadership and striking appearance.
14. Sorley (SOR-lee)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Summer sailor”; linked to adventure, exploration, and the sea.
15. Struan (STROO-an)
    Origin: Perthshire
    Meaning: “Stream”; tied to flowing water, symbolising vitality and nature.
16. Tavish (TAV-ish)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Twin”; a rare and soft-sounding name with familial significance.
17. Torquil (TOR-kil)
    Origin: Norse-Scottish
    Meaning: “Thor’s cauldron”; blending Norse and Gaelic heritage, it reflects strength and mythology.
18. Wray (RAY)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Corner of land”; tied to Scotland’s farming traditions and rural landscapes.
19. Ythan (EYE-than)
    Origin: Aberdeenshire
    Meaning: “River name”; linked to the tranquil river in Scotland.
20. Zander (ZAN-der)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Defender of the people”; a modern twist on Alexander.

Modern Scottish Boy Names

These names strike a balance between traditional roots and contemporary appeal.

1. Alec (AL-ek)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Defender of the people”; a fresh variation of Alexander.
2. Blane (BLAYN)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Slender”; a sleek and modern name.
3. Cael (KAYL)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Victorious”; a short, strong name tied to success.
4. Ciaran (KEER-an)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Little dark one”; a modern yet traditional favourite.
5. Dallas (DAL-uhs)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Meadow dwelling”; tied to serene landscapes.
6. Evander (ee-VAN-der)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Good man”; bold and modern with classical roots.
7. Finnan (FIN-an)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Fair”; a name of beauty and simplicity.
8. Gavin (GAV-in)
   Origin: Gaelic
   Meaning: “Hawk of the battle”; sharp and strong.
9. Harris (HA-ris)
   Origin: Isle of Harris
   Meaning: “Son of Harry”; tied to Scotland’s Hebridean isles.
10. Irvin (ER-vin)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Green water”; connected to nature.
11. Jura (JOO-rah)
    Origin: Isle of Jura
    Meaning: “Island of yew trees”; inspired by Scottish geography.
12. Kerr (KER)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Man of strength”; crisp and stylish.
13. Lennon (LEN-un)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Lover”; a poetic and modern name.
14. Macrae (MAC-ray)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Son of grace”; combining tradition and freshness.
15. Oran (OR-an)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Light”; a hopeful and uplifting choice.
16. Ramsay (RAM-zee)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Low-lying land”; sophisticated yet grounded.
17. Shea (SHAY)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Majestic”; sleek and memorable.
18. Torrance (TOR-uns)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “From the hills”; a unique and distinguished name.
19. Vail (VAYL)
    Origin: Gaelic
    Meaning: “Valley”; modern and nature-inspired.
20. Yarrow (YA-row)
    Origin: Scottish Borders
    Meaning: “Healing herb”; an uncommon and meaningful choice.

Famous Scottish Boy Names

These names are associated with notable Scots throughout history.

Ewan – (YOU-in) Inspired by Ewan McGregor, the celebrated actor.

Sean – The Gaelic form of John, immortalised by Sean Connery.

Hamish – A beloved name popularised by fictional characters like Hamish Macbeth.

Angus – A name tied to Scottish kings and clan leaders.

Dougal – A name featured in historical tales and modern literature.

Scottish Names with Historical Significance

Names rooted in history and the legends of Scotland.

Lachlan – (LOCK-lan) Meaning “land of lakes,” a name of ancient origins.

Fergus – (FER-gus) Linked to kings and warriors of old.

Alasdair – (AL-uh-stair) A name carried by historic clan leaders.

Ewan – (YOU-in) A nod to Saint Eoghan, an early Christian missionary.

Malcolm – (MAL-kum) Worn by Scottish kings and noblemen.

Most Popular Scottish Boy Names 2023

Taken from the National Records for Scotland. Here’s a list of the most commonly used boy names in Scotland for 2023:

:

L

Cultural Insights

Scottish names aren’t just about picking something that sounds nice—they’re brimming with history, culture, and a touch of magic. Each one carries a little piece of Scotland with it, whether it’s a nod to the Highlands, a saint, or a clan tradition.

Naming Traditions

Clans and Heritage
If you’ve ever seen a Scottish surname starting with “Mac” or “Mc”, that’s shorthand for “son of”. Names like MacGregor (“son of Gregor”) or MacKenzie (“son of Kenneth”) proudly declare someone’s heritage. It’s like an early version of a family WhatsApp group, but way cooler and with swords.

Gaelic and Celtic Influence
Gaelic names often draw inspiration from nature, mythology, and spirituality. Take Ewan, for example—it means “born of the yew tree”, which in Celtic tradition symbolises strength and eternity. Then there’s Aidan, meaning “little fire”, which just sounds like a future rock star in the making.

Saints and Religion
Christianity made its mark on Scotland, and a lot of names reflect that. Andrew, for instance, is named after Scotland’s patron saint. Then there’s Malcolm, which means “devotee of Saint Columba”. These names don’t just roll off the tongue—they carry a sense of purpose. Why not check out our post on 100+ Biblical Boy Names and Their Meanings for more male religious name inspiration?

Historical Context

Scotland has a knack for producing legendary kings, warriors, and poets, and their names are just as iconic. Malcolm and Duncan are classic kingly names, while Fergus and Angus come straight out of Celtic folklore. Honestly, choosing one of these is like giving your kid an instant superhero backstory.

Pronunciation Guide

Let’s be honest, Gaelic and Celtic names can throw even the best of us. The spelling is unique, the pronunciations can be a mystery, and you might feel like you need a translator. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

Basic Rules

Vowels:

“A” usually sounds like “ah” (e.g., Alasdair = AL-uh-stair).

“E” can sound like “ay” or “eh” (e.g., Ewan = YOU-in).

Consonants:

“C” is always a hard “k”. So, Callum is KAL-um.

“Ch” has a soft, almost throaty sound, like in the name Lachlan (LOCK-lan).

Cheat Sheet for Common Names

Famous People and Pop Culture

These are names tied to people and characters who’ve made their mark—whether it’s on the silver screen, in history books, or just in our hearts. Choosing one of these names is like giving your kid a little boost in the “cool” department.

Historical Figures

Andrew Carnegie: If you want a name tied to ambition and generosity, Andrew’s your man. He basically built libraries everywhere.

Sean Connery: The OG James Bond. Sophistication, swagger, and a name that’s recognisable worldwide.

Robert the Bruce: King of Scotland and hero of Braveheart fame. Honestly, Robert just screams “natural-born leader.” – Definitely a favourite old fashioned boy name for me.

Modern Celebrities

Ewan McGregor: From Trainspotting to Star Wars, Ewan proves this name works for any stage in life.

Dougie Poynter: The McFly bassist gives the name Dougie a fun, rock-and-roll edge.

Hamish Watson: Rugby fans know him as a powerhouse on the field. Hamish feels like the name of someone who doesn’t take nonsense from anyone.

Fictional Characters

Hamish Macbeth: A quirky detective who’s as Scottish as it gets. The name Hamish feels cosy yet adventurous.

Angus MacGyver: Remember MacGyver? He could disarm a bomb with a paperclip. Angus is the name of someone who’s sharp, resourceful, and maybe just a little bit magical.

Get Tae

We hope this list of 100 Scottish boy names has sparked inspiration for naming your wee Highlander. Each name carries a story, a connection to Scotland’s heritage, and a sense of identity that’s truly unique.

FAQ Section

What are the most popular Scottish boy names?

Names like Logan, Ewan, and Callum frequently rank among the favourites.

Are there short Scottish boy names?

Yes! Names like Ross, Ben, and Glen are succinct yet packed with meaning.

What does the name Fraser mean?

Fraser is derived from the French word fraisier meaning “strawberry” and is tied to the noble Clan Fraser.

What Scottish boy names are inspired by nature?

Names like Glen (“valley”), Muir (“moor or sea”), and Blair (“plain or field”) are perfect for nature lovers.

Are Wild Haggis Real?

Of course.

Which name was your favourite? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to explore our other baby name ideas for even more inspiration!