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Nieve

Girl name · 444 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Nieve: 444 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 61 births in 2008.

Nieve is a name with two possible origins, though for English and Scottish speakers it is most often a modern anglicised spelling of the Irish and Scottish Gaelic name Niamh, meaning "bright" or "radiant." As a Spanish word, nieve simply means "snow," lending it a crisp, wintry feel. The name has been borne by notable figures such as Nieve Jennings, the Scottish model and beauty queen who represented Scotland at Miss World 2019, and Nieve O'Brien, an Irish actress known for her role in *The Notebook* musical. While no major place names derive directly from Nieve, the Gaelic root shines through in Scottish locations like Nevis or the River Nith. A charming variant is the original Gaelic Niamh, and the name has gained steady popularity in Scotland since the 1990s, often chosen for its lyrical sound and connection to ancient mythology.