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Sophia

Girl name · 4,211 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Sophia: 4,211 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 271 births in 2014.

Sophia, from the Greek *sophia* meaning "wisdom," has been a beloved classic across Europe for centuries. Its most famous bearer is likely Sophia Loren, the iconic Italian actress whose glamour and talent defined mid-20th century cinema. The name also connects to the historical figure Saint Sophia, a martyr venerated in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, and to the magnificent Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, whose name means "Holy Wisdom." In Scotland, Sophia has enjoyed steady popularity, often chosen for its timeless elegance and international appeal. A notable variant is the Russian Sofiya, while the name's philosophical weight has made it a favourite in literature, from Fielding's *Tom Jones* to the modern classic *Sophie's Choice*.