Sonny
Boy name · 1,540 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Sonny: 1,540 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 137 births in 2025.
From the English word ‘son’ combined with the affectionate -y suffix, Sonny began as a nickname meaning ‘little son’ or ‘young boy’ before becoming a given name in its own right. It also occasionally serves as a diminutive for Scandinavian names such as Soren. Famous bearers include heavyweight boxing champion Sonny Liston, the gravel-voiced singer and US Congressman Sonny Bono, and legendary jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins. While there are no major towns named directly after these men, the term ‘sonny’ appears as a friendly address across many English-speaking cultures. In Scotland, Sonny has a warm, approachable feel—often chosen as a standalone name or a cheerful nickname for a younger family member, carrying an enduring sense of youthful energy.
Boy 34 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 2025137 babies
- Latest (2025)
- #26137 babies
- Total births
- 1,540since 1984
- 5-year trend
- ▲ 46%vs prior 5y