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Nia

Girl name · 167 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Nia: 167 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 13 births in 2020.

Nia is a name with multiple roots, most relevantly the Welsh form of the Irish Niamh, meaning “bright” or “radiant” – a connection that resonates in Scotland, where Niamh itself has long been used. In Swahili, Nia means “purpose” or “intention,” giving the name a shared sense of clarity and drive. Notable bearers include Welsh actress Nia Roberts and American actress Nia Vardalos, star of *My Big Fat Greek Wedding*, while Nia Jax has made her name in professional wrestling. The name shares its luminous root with places like Niamh’s Hill in Irish mythology, and in Scotland, Nia has gained steady popularity since the 1990s as a short, modern choice with ancient Celtic warmth.