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Ailbe

Boy name · 11 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Ailbe: 11 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 5 births in 2019.

Ailbe is a name of ancient Irish and Scottish Gaelic origin, derived from Ailbhe, likely meaning “white” or “elf” – a reference to brightness or otherworldly grace. It is most famously borne by Saint Ailbe of Emly, a 6th-century bishop and missionary who is considered one of Ireland’s four great early saints, alongside Patrick, Brigid, and Columba. The saint’s stronghold, Emly in County Tipperary, takes its name from his foundation. In Irish mythology, Ailbe also appears as a warrior woman in the Fenian Cycle, adding a rare feminine dimension to this historically male name. A notable variant is Ailbhe, which is now commonly used for girls in Ireland, while the Anglicised form Alby is occasionally seen.