WeeNames Scottish baby names

← All names

Kyle

Boy / Girl name · 9,871 babies recorded · 1974–2025

From the Gaelic *caol* meaning "narrow" or "slender," Kyle originally described a strait or channel—the Kyle of Lochalsh in the Highlands is a direct place-name connection. The name became popular in the 1990s thanks to figures such as American actor Kyle MacLachlan (*Twin Peaks*) and NASCAR driver Kyle Busch. A short, strong name with Celtic roots, Kyle also appears as a surname and has been used for both boys and girls, though in Scotland it remains predominantly masculine. The name's simplicity and land-linked meaning give it a enduring appeal.

Boy 52 of 52 years

Peak year
2003479 babies
Latest (2025)
#21919 babies
Total births
9,868since 1974
5-year trend
▼ 65%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2003 · 479
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).

Girl 1 of 52 years

Peak year
19873 babies
Latest (1987)
#5823 babies
Total births
3since 1987
5-year trend
≈ stablevs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 1987 · 3
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).