Meaning, origin, history
Craig is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic word 'creag', which means "rock" or "crag". It is often associated with rocky outcrops or cliffs in Scotland's rugged landscape.
The name Craig has been used for centuries in Scotland and was traditionally given to boys born into families living near craggy terrain. Over time, it gained popularity beyond its native borders, becoming a popular choice among English-speaking families around the world.
In the Middle Ages, there were records of individuals named Craig in Scotland, such as Sir Thomas Craig, a 16th-century lawyer and poet. However, it was not until the 19th century that the name began to appear more frequently in England and other parts of Britain.
Today, Craig remains a popular unisex given name, although it is still more commonly used for boys. It has been ranked among the top 1,000 names for babies born in several English-speaking countries over the past few decades.
Some notable people with the name Craig include American actor Craig T. Nelson, Canadian singer-songwriter Craig Northey, and Scottish author Iain Banks (whose real name was Iain Craig Oban).
In summary, Craig is a name with strong Scottish roots, meaning "rock" or "crag". While its origins date back centuries, it has gained popularity in recent times as a unisex given name. Despite its traditional association with boys, the name Craig can be given to either gender and carries an enduring appeal thanks to its simple yet meaningful moniker.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Craig since 1880
Total births
1,012
Total since 1880
Peak year
1970
46 births
in 1996
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years