Finlay
Finlay is a boy's name of Scottish origin.
Meaning
Fair-haired warrior or white hero.
Origin and history
Finlay is a name of Scottish Gaelic origin meaning fair-haired warrior or white warrior. While traditionally popular in Scotland and the United Kingdom, it has seen steady growth as a stylish, lesser-used choice in the United States. In recent U.S. birth data, it remains relatively uncommon but steadily used for boys.
Popularity in the United States
1,102 babies in the United States have been named Finlay since 1880. It ranks #3587 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #1620.
States where it is most popular
- CA (54 %)
- NY (18.8 %)
- MA (6.6 %)
- WA (5.6 %)
- PA (5.2 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 0 |
| 1910-1920 | 6 |
| 1920-1930 | 0 |
| 1930-1940 | 0 |
| 1940-1950 | 0 |
| 1950-1960 | 0 |
| 1960-1970 | 0 |
| 1970-1980 | 0 |
| 1980-1990 | 0 |
| 1990-2000 | 14 |
| 2000-2010 | 329 |
| 2010-2019 | 446 |
| 2020-2029 | 307 |
Famous people named Finlay
- Finlay Mickel: Alpine Skier, Athlete
- Finlay Calder: Rugby Union Player
Nicknames
Finn, Fin
Fun facts
- The name derives from the Gaelic elements 'fionn' (white/fair) and 'laoch' (warrior), borne by Macbeth's father, Findláech of Moray.
- Finlay is the traditional Scottish spelling, whereas Finley is more commonly used in the United States.