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Roux

Girl / Boy name · 33 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Roux: 33 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to both boys and girls, peaking at 8 births in 2022.

Originally a French surname, Roux derives from the Old French word *rous*, meaning "red"—a reference to a person's ruddy complexion or red hair. As a first name, it remains rare but has gained quiet popularity among parents drawn to its chic, single-syllable sound and culinary associations, as roux is a classic flour-and-fat base in French cooking. Notable bearers are few, though the name is linked to the celebrated Roux brothers (Albert and Michel), legendary chefs who founded Le Gavroche. There is a Belgian municipality called Roux, but its etymology is unrelated. Unsurprisingly, the given name also evokes the French color *rouge*. Roux works equally well for boys and girls, offering a sophisticated alternative to more common "red" names like Russell or Ruby.