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Eilidh Name Meaning & Details

Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Eilidh

Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name EILIDH. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.

Name

Eilidh

Gender

Female

Origin

Gaelic

Lucky Number

2

Meaning of the Name

Eilidh is a Scottish Gaelic name meaning 'light' or 'sun', and is a cognate of the name Helen.

Stages of a Female

Complete Numerology Analysis

Your Numerology Number

2

Based on Pythagorean Numerology System

Ruling Planet

Moon

Positive Nature

Diplomatic, friendly, artistic, empathetic.

Negative Traits

Over-sensitive, moody, indecisive, prone to self-pity.

Lucky Colours

Green, cream, white.

Lucky Days

Monday.

Lucky Stones

Pearl, moonstone.

Harmony Numbers

1, 3, 4.

Best Suited Professions

Diplomats, mediators, caregivers, artists.

What People Like About You

Cooperative spirit, friendliness, artistic talent.

Famous People Named Eilidh

Eilidh Child

Athlete

Scottish hurdler who represented Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics and won multiple medals at Commonwealth Games

Eilidh Doyle

Athlete

Scottish track and field athlete specializing in 400m hurdles, European champion and Commonwealth Games medalist

Eilidh MacQueen

Actress

Scottish actress best known for her role as Young Witch in the TV series 'The Worst Witch'

Eilidh Whiteford

Politician

Scottish National Party politician who served as MP for Banff and Buchan from 2010 to 2017

Name Variations & International Equivalents

Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.

Cultural & Historical Significance

Eilidh holds deep cultural significance in Scottish Gaelic tradition as the native form of Helen. The name connects to ancient Celtic roots while maintaining strong Scottish identity. In Gaelic-speaking communities, particularly in the Highlands and Islands, Eilidh represents cultural preservation and linguistic heritage. The name gained prominence during the Celtic Revival of the 19th century when there was renewed interest in Gaelic culture and names. Eilidh symbolizes the resilience of Scottish Gaelic language and culture despite historical pressures toward Anglicization. Many Scottish families choose this name to honor their heritage and maintain linguistic traditions, making it a powerful statement of cultural identity in modern Scotland.

The name's journey through history reflects broader patterns of Gaelic cultural survival and renaissance. During periods of political and cultural suppression, names like Eilidh served as subtle acts of resistance and cultural preservation. In contemporary Scotland, the name has become emblematic of the Gaelic language revival movement, appearing frequently in Gaelic-medium education settings and cultural organizations. The Scottish Parliament's recognition of Gaelic as an official language in 2005 further boosted the name's visibility and acceptance. Today, Eilidh represents not just personal identity but collective cultural renewal, connecting modern Scots to their ancestral linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary global contexts.

Extended Personality Analysis

Individuals named Eilidh are often associated with brightness and warmth, reflecting the name's meaning of 'light'. They typically exhibit natural leadership qualities combined with approachable charm. Eilidhs are known for their intelligence, quick wit, and strong communication skills, often excelling in social situations and forming deep connections with others. Their personality blends traditional values with modern adaptability, creating a unique balance of stability and innovation. Many Eilidhs demonstrate artistic talent or creative thinking, along with practical problem-solving abilities. They tend to be resilient and determined, capable of overcoming challenges while maintaining their positive outlook and inner strength that inspires those around them.

Beyond these general characteristics, Eilidhs often display a distinctive combination of cultural pride and global awareness. Growing up with a name that carries significant cultural weight, many develop strong connections to their heritage while remaining open to diverse perspectives. They frequently show aptitude for languages and cultural exchange, acting as bridges between different communities. The name's Gaelic origins often correlate with appreciation for arts, music, and storytelling. Eilidhs typically possess strong ethical compasses and community orientation, valuing relationships and collective wellbeing. Their 'light' quality manifests as emotional intelligence, the ability to understand and uplift others, and a natural talent for creating harmonious environments wherever they go.

Modern Usage & Popularity

Eilidh has experienced significant growth in popularity across Scotland and the wider UK since the 1990s. The name consistently ranks among the top 100 girls' names in Scotland, reflecting a cultural renaissance of Gaelic names. According to National Records of Scotland data, Eilidh has maintained steady popularity, particularly in urban centers like Glasgow and Edinburgh where Gaelic-medium education has expanded. Modern usage shows strong regional concentration in Scotland, particularly in areas with Gaelic heritage like the Highlands, Islands, and urban centers with strong Scottish communities. The name's appeal extends to parents seeking traditional yet distinctive names that honor Scottish heritage while remaining accessible to English speakers. Social media and celebrity influences have contributed to its spread, with the name appearing more frequently in birth announcements and parenting forums. Despite its Gaelic origins, Eilidh has gained recognition internationally through Scottish diaspora communities in Canada, Australia, and the United States, where it serves as a meaningful connection to Scottish roots.

Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings

The name Eilidh carries profound symbolic meaning as 'light' in its purest form. It represents illumination, guidance, and enlightenment – both literally and metaphorically. Symbolically, Eilidh embodies the concept of inner light that guides through darkness, wisdom that dispels ignorance, and hope that overcomes despair. The name connects to ancient Celtic symbolism of fire and light as sacred elements of transformation and purification. In Celtic spirituality, light names were believed to carry protective qualities and spiritual blessings. Metaphorically, Eilidh suggests someone who brings clarity to complex situations, warmth to cold circumstances, and inspiration to challenging moments. The light symbolism extends to creativity, intelligence, and spiritual awareness, making the name particularly meaningful for families valuing these qualities. In broader symbolic contexts, Eilidh represents cultural continuity – the enduring light of Gaelic tradition shining through centuries of change and challenge, much like the eternal flame of Celtic heritage that continues to illuminate Scottish identity today.

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