Nial
Boy name · 6 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Nial: 6 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 3 births in 1977.
Niall, the Irish and Scottish Gaelic form of Neil, traces its roots to the Old Irish name Niall, likely derived from *nél* meaning "cloud" or "passionate," though some connect it to the Old Norse *Njáll*. It is famously associated with Niall of the Nine Hostages, a legendary 4th-century High King of Ireland whose descendants, the Uí Néill dynasty, shaped early medieval Ireland. In modern times, the name is carried by Niall Horan, the Irish singer-songwriter from One Direction, and Niall Ferguson, the prominent Scottish historian. The name also appears in place names like County Donegal's Lough Niall. A common English variant is Neal, while in Scotland, Niall remains a firm favourite, often chosen for its celtic heritage and melodic simplicity.
Boy 2 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 19773 babies
- Latest (1991)
- #3703 babies
- Total births
- 6since 1977
- 5-year trend
- ≈ stablevs prior 5y