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Lia

Girl name · 361 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Lia: 361 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 33 births in 2004.

Often considered a short form of names like Amelia or Cecilia, Lia stands confidently on its own, tracing its roots to the Hebrew Leah, meaning "weary" or "delicate." In Scotland, it has gained steady popularity since the 1970s, offering a sleek, modern feel while carrying ancient depth. Notable bearers include American Olympic swimmer Lia Neal, who won bronze in the 4x100m freestyle relay at London 2012. The name also appears in Italian and Portuguese cultures, where it is pronounced with a softer, lyrical lilt. While no place names stem directly from Lia, it shares its etymological core with Leah, a name deeply embedded in biblical tradition. For Scottish parents, Lia feels fresh yet timeless, a graceful alternative to longer, more formal choices.