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Maili

Girl name · 14 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Maili: 14 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 5 births in 2016.

Maili is a Scottish Gaelic diminutive of Mary, rooted in the biblical name meaning "bitter" or "beloved." In Scotland it has been a familiar and affectionate form for generations, often anglicised as Molly or Polly. While no widely famous historical bearers spring to mind, the name has a gentle, melodic quality that feels both traditional and fresh. Interestingly, Maili also appears in Hawaiian with a very different meaning—"calm" or "sea breeze"—giving it a dual heritage that can appeal to families with connections to both cultures. In its Scottish context, it remains a warm, understated choice, linking modern parents to the enduring Gaelic tradition of shortening Mary.

Girl 4 of 52 years

Peak year
20165 babies
Latest (2022)
#7603 babies
Total births
14since 2015
5-year trend
≈ stablevs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2016 · 5
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).