All about the name

Elspeth

Female

« Elspeth is a unique Scottish name derived from "Ùileasbeatha," meaning "pledged to God. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Elspeth is a beautiful and unique name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish Gaelic name "Ùileasbeatha," which means "pledged to God." The name has been used in Scotland for centuries, with its earliest known usage dating back to the 12th century. The name Elspeth was particularly popular among the nobility and gentry of Scotland during the Middle Ages. It is believed that the name gained prominence due to its association with several prominent historical figures. One such figure is Elspeth Graham, who was a member of the powerful Graham clan and married Alexander Seton, the Earl of Winton. Over time, the name Elspeth has become more commonly used throughout Scotland and beyond. Today, it is still considered to be a distinctly Scottish name but can be found in various parts of the world. Despite its popularity, Elspeth remains a unique and distinctive choice for a girl's name.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Elspeth since 1880

Total births
885
Total since 1880
Peak year
1984
39 births
in 2023
12
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+17%
vs previous 5 years