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Dove

Girl name · 4 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Dove: 4 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 4 births in 2024.

Dove is a gentle word name drawn directly from the Old English *dūfe*, naming the bird long revered as a symbol of peace, love, and the Holy Spirit in Christian tradition. Though not originally Scottish, it has appeared on birth registers in Scotland since the 1970s, likely influenced by its serene, nature-inspired appeal. Notable bearers include the American actress Dove Cameron, known for Disney Channel roles, and the poet Rita Dove, a former U.S. Poet Laureate. A place sharing this root is the River Dove in England, while the Hebrew variant Dov means “bear” – a surprisingly different animal. Unisex in use but more common for girls, Dove offers a fresh, minimalist choice that carries timeless spiritual and literary associations.