Nelson
Boy name · 16 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Nelson: 16 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 4 births in 2011.
Originally a surname meaning "son of Neil" – from the Gaelic Niall, signifying "champion" – Nelson gained popularity as a first name in honour of Admiral Horatio Nelson, the naval hero of Trafalgar. The name also belongs to Nelson Mandela, South Africa's transformative president, and three-time Formula One champion Nelson Piquet. Geographic tributes include Nelson, New Zealand, named after the admiral, plus towns in Canada and the United States. In Scotland, the name is less widespread but carries a strong patronymic legacy, reflecting the enduring Gaelic roots of Neil. A notable cultural touchstone is Nelson's Column in London, while the surname form remains more common than the given name in Scottish records.
Boy 5 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 20114 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #7623 babies
- Total births
- 16since 2011
- 5-year trend
- ≈ stablevs prior 5y