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Mhairi

Girl name · 2,556 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Mhairi: 2,556 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 101 births in 1989.

Mhairi is the distinctive Scottish Gaelic vocative form of Màiri, the Gaelic equivalent of Mary, which itself traces back to the Hebrew name Maryam, meaning “beloved” or “wished-for child.” In modern Scotland, the name carries a strong cultural identity and has been borne by notable figures such as Mhairi Black, who became the youngest MP since 1667 when elected in 2015, and Mhairi Spence, a Commonwealth gold medal-winning modern pentathlete. While no major places are directly named after Mhairi, the root Mary has inspired countless place names worldwide, from St Mary’s Loch in the Borders to the Virgin Islands. As a variant of the timeless Mary, Mhairi stands out for its uniquely Scottish pronunciation (roughly “VAH-ree”) and its deep connection to Gaelic heritage, making it a favourite among parents seeking a name both classic and distinct.