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Alia

Girl name · 105 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Alia: 105 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 9 births in 2018.

With roots in Arabic, Alia means "exalted" or "sublime," sharing its etymology with Aaliyah, a name that gained global recognition through the soulful R&B singer Aaliyah. Modern bearers include Indian actress Alia Bhatt, one of Bollywood's highest-paid stars, and American actress Alia Shawkat of *Arrested Development* fame. In science, Alia Sabur made headlines in 2003 as the world's youngest college professor at just nineteen. Though not tied to a specific place, the name's elegant simplicity has made it a cross-cultural favourite, appearing in everything from Roman-era Syria to contemporary Scotland, where it steadily appears on baby name lists. Its graceful sound and uplifting meaning make it an enduring choice for parents seeking a name that feels both distinctive and warm.