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Penelope

Girl name · 703 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Penelope: 703 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 58 births in 2025.

Of Greek origin, Penelope is most famously the faithful wife of Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey; her name likely derives from pēnē, meaning “weave” or “web,” referencing her clever weaving to delay suitors. The name gained modern prominence through Spanish actress Penélope Cruz, author Penelope Lively, and stage-and-screen star Penelope Wilton. While no major place shares the name directly, the common nickname Penny lends itself to many street names. A notable variant is the French Penélope, and the name enjoyed a strong revival in Scotland from the 1990s onward, often chosen for its blend of classical elegance and approachable charm.