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Orlaidh

Girl name · 3 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Orlaidh: 3 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 3 births in 2007.

Orlaidh is a beautifully lyrical Scottish Gaelic name, a feminine form derived from the Irish Órlaith, meaning “golden princess” — from ór (gold) and flaith (princess or ruler). It shares its root with the more familiar Orla, though Orlaidh retains a distinct, traditional spelling that feels intimately connected to the Highlands and Islands. While no widely known historical bearer springs to mind, the name is related to Saint Órlaith, an early Irish abbess and patroness of healing. The anglicised version Orla has seen steady use in Scotland since the late 20th century, but Orlaidh itself remains a rare gem — a choice that quietly honours heritage while standing apart from more common variants. There are no notable places directly linked to the name, though the golden imagery evokes Scotland’s sunlit glens and ancient Celtic artistry.