What does Ceilidh mean and where does it come from?
The name 'Ceilidh' originates from the Scottish Gaelic word for 'gathering', 'ceilidh' (pronounced 'kay-lee') refers specifically to a traditional Scottish social event involving folk music and dancing. It is particularly popular in Scotland and among Scottish communities around the world. The first
Cultural significance
Ceilidh has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of scottish gaelic.
Peak popularity
Reached #8073 in 1999 — currently #965 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ceilidh?
Ceilidh works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ceilidh Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ceilidh Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ceilidh Mae
Sweet · timeless
Ceilidh Claire
French influence · crisp
Ceilidh Jane
Literary · strong
Ceilidh Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ceilidh right now?
Holding steady — currently #965 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #965 | 1,235 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #970 | 1,215 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #975 | 1,185 | ▲ up 10389 · +14713% births |
| 2000 | #11364 | 8 | ▼ down 2696 · -20% births |
| 1995 | #8668 | 10 | — |
The story of Ceilidh
Ceilidh is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1989. With 107 total births recorded, Ceilidh remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8668 in 1995 to #965 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Ceilidh in 1999:
💎Ceilidh has only 107 total recorded births since 1989 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Ceilidh?
Common
CeiCeilCeilieCeilyIlidh
What names sound and feel like Ceilidh?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ceilidh also consider these
Common questions about the name Ceilidh
What does the name Ceilidh mean?
Ceilidh means "Scottish Gaelic" — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Ceilidh?
Ceilidh is currently ranked #965 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ceilidh?
Ceilidh originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Ceilidh a common or rare name?
Ceilidh is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Ceilidh?
Ceilidh naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.