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Tara

Girl name · 698 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Tara: 698 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 30 births in 1998.

Tara is a name rich with layered heritage. Its most familiar origin is Irish Gaelic, from *Teamhair*, meaning "elevated place" or "hill," famously associated with the Hill of Tara, the ancient ceremonial and political seat of the High Kings of Ireland. In Sanskrit, Tara means "star," and is also the name of a revered Buddhist goddess and bodhisattva. The most famous bearer in recent history is perhaps the fictional plantation in Margaret Mitchell's *Gone with the Wind*, which has made the name globally recognised. Actress Tara Fitzgerald and Irish folk musician Tara O'Grady are notable namesakes. The name's Scottish connection is primarily through migration and Gaelic cultural links, making it a poetic choice that evokes both ancient sovereignty and celestial light.

Girl 52 of 52 years

Peak year
199830 babies
Latest (2025)
#6324 babies
Total births
698since 1974
5-year trend
▼ 10%vs prior 5y
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 1998 · 30
Births per year in Scotland. Missing years had a count of 2 or fewer (suppressed by NRS).