← All names

Michaela

Girl name · 1,019 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Michaela: 1,019 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 88 births in 1989.

Michaela is the feminine form of the Hebrew name Michael, meaning "who is like God?"—a rhetorical question underscoring divine uniqueness. This elegant name gained widespread popularity across Europe and became a familiar choice in English-speaking countries from the mid-20th century. Notable bearers include actress Michaela McManus, known for roles in *One Tree Hill* and *Law & Order: SVU*, and British playwright Michaela Coel, creator of the acclaimed series *I May Destroy You*. While no town is named directly after the name, its root Saint Michael appears in Scottish place names such as St Michael's Church and St Michael's Mount. Common variants include Mikayla, Makayla, and Micaela, each with its own spelling twist. In Scotland, Michaela has remained a steady favourite since the 1990s, blending timeless biblical heritage with a modern, melodic softness.