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Elias

Boy name · 232 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Elias: 232 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 23 births in 2023.

A name of Hebrew origin, Elias is the Greek and Latin form of the Old Testament name Elijah, meaning "Yahweh is my God." It carries a strong biblical legacy, most notably through the prophet Elijah, a central figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In more recent history, the name has been borne by Elias Canetti, the Bulgarian-born, Nobel Prize-winning author known for his masterpiece *Crowds and Power*. A fitting place connection lies in the Scottish island of St Kilda’s main village, named Elia, though scholars debate a direct link to the saint’s name. Interestingly, Elias has enjoyed a steady revival in Scotland over the last two decades, often chosen for its timeless, international feel that works effortlessly alongside shorter nicknames such as Eli.

Boy 23 of 52 years

Peak year
202323 babies
Latest (2025)
#20820 babies
Total births
232since 2002
5-year trend
▲ 82%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2023 · 23
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).