Cailidh

narrow, slender
Scottish origin · Unisex name
50% boys50% girls
#1910US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.4%Percentile

What does Cailidh mean and where does it come from?

Cailidh is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word 'caol', meaning narrow or slender.

Cultural significance
The name is used in Scotland and among Scottish communities, often reflecting traditional Gaelic naming practices.
Peak popularity
Reached #1910 in 2015 — currently #1910 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scottish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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How else can you spell Cailidh?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Cailidh?

Cailidh works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Cailidh Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Cailidh John
One syllable · timeless choice
Cailidh Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Cailidh Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Cailidh Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Cailidh Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Cailidh
Browse ideas →

How popular is Cailidh right now?

Holding steady — currently #1910 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1910 · Top 1.4%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#191010stable
2022#191010stable
2021#191010stable
2020#191010stable
2019#191010
💎Cailidh is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

What are good nicknames for Cailidh?

Common
CaiCailCailieCailyIlidh

Common questions about the name Cailidh

What does the name Cailidh mean?
Cailidh means "narrow, slender" — a name rooted in Scottish tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Cailidh?
Cailidh is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Cailidh?
Cailidh originates from Scottish tradition. Scottish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Cailidh a common or rare name?
Cailidh is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Cailidh more of a girl or boy name?
Cailidh is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.