← All names

Morna

Girl name · 117 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Morna: 117 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 13 births in 1974.

Morna is a name with Gaelic roots, derived from “Muirne,” meaning “affection” or “beloved,” and in Irish mythology, Muirne was the mother of the legendary hero Fionn mac Cumhaill. Its famous bearers include Morna Pearson, a contemporary Scottish playwright whose work often explores Highland life and identity. The name also appears in the romantic song “Morna,” written by Irish composer Thomas Moore, which helped popularise the name in the 19th century. Notably, Morna serves as an alternative to the more common “Moira” or “Moyra,” and shares its affectionate sense with the Scottish Gaelic word for “darling.” This gentle meaning, paired with its mythical and literary associations, gives Morna a timeless, tender quality that feels both historic and endearing.