Scottish Last Names

Faraday is a whimsical Scottish surname that works equally well as a first name for girls or boys.

This artistic surname name derives from a diminutive of Laurence/Lawrence, and was famously borne by the English painter LS Lowry.

The geographical spelling of the Scottish surname Sterling, now starting to be heard for girls, too.

Hunter is gaining favor among girls—for those in search of something less common, we recommend Hutton.

Despite its appearance, McGill is not related to any of the Gil- names, including Gilbert, Gilford, and Gilson. The "gill" piece is derived from the Gaelic word gall, meaning "foreigner." Yet, it could still be used to honor a Gil in your life.

Traditionally pronounced "ming-iz" and thus the relationship to the jazzy Mingus, Menzies is an old Scottish surname related to the more common Manners.

An unusual and appealing Scottish family name that would work as well for a girl as a boy.

Barr fits alongside other short and snappy surname-names like Fyfe, Blair and Dawe. They're off the beaten track but instantly familiar.

Upper crust pet form still used in some old money families.

A new crop of gender-neutral English place names have suddenly become trendy — those ending in -ton. Multi-syllabic but not dramatic, these names are rising quickly for girls and boys. Think Charleston, Lexington, and Kensington. Livingston isn't as hot as some of the others, but its time will soon come. For a girl, Livingston boasts the nickname Liv.

Alternative spelling of the Welsh name Lowri, a form of Laura.