Richard
Boy name · 8,397 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Richard: 8,397 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 558 births in 1974.
Richard is a classic name of Old German origin, meaning 'brave power' or 'strong ruler,' derived from *ric* (power) and *hard* (brave). It was brought to England by the Normans and famously borne by three English kings, including Richard the Lionheart, the crusading monarch. In modern times, the name is synonymous with actor Richard Burton, known for his powerful voice and roles in *Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?*. The city of Richmond, meaning 'strong hill,' shares its first element, while the name's popularity in Scotland has remained steady since the 1970s, often shortened to the friendly nickname Richie or the formal Rick. Richard has also gained a lasting scientific association through Nobel-winning physicist Richard Feynman, celebrated for his work on quantum electrodynamics.
Boy 52 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 1974558 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #5605 babies
- Total births
- 8,397since 1974
- 5-year trend
- ▼ 29%vs prior 5y