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Gia

Girl name · 74 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Gia: 74 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 21 births in 2023.

A short, vibrant name with Italian roots, Gia began as a nickname for Gianna, the feminine form of Giovanni—John in English—so its deeper meaning is “God is gracious.” The name shot to fame through the tragic life of Gia Carangi, the 1970s supermodel often called the first true supermodel, whose story was later dramatised in a 1998 TV film starring Angelina Jolie. Director Gia Coppola, granddaughter of Francis Ford Coppola, carries the name into modern cinema. While no major place bears the name directly, Gia shares its etymological root with dozens of towns and churches named San Giovanni across Italy and beyond. A favourite choice for parents drawn to brief, punchy names with Italian flair and cultural weight.