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Ivy

Girl name · 1,609 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Ivy: 1,609 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 180 births in 2024.

The name Ivy derives from the Old English word *īfig*, referring to the climbing evergreen plant, which in ancient times symbolized fidelity, eternity, and friendship. It's a name with gentle botanical charm that has been a quiet classic for centuries. A famous bearer is the American actress Ivy Close, a pioneer of silent film, and another is the British-born dancer and West End star Ivy Tresmand. The name shares its root with the plant itself, which grows abundantly across the British Isles, from cottage walls to forest floors. Notably, Ivy has seen a remarkable resurgence in popularity in Scotland and beyond since the 2000s, often paired with vintage names like Rose or Mae, and it’s also a favourite choice for parents who love names drawn from nature’s quiet elegance.