What does Eilidh mean?
Eilidh is a Scottish Gaelic name linked to Helen, “sun” or “light.”
What does Ailsa mean?
Ailsa comes from Ailsa Craig, an island rock, and is linked to “elf” and “victory.”
Eilidh vs Ailsa
Which is more popular?
Eilidh is more popular than Ailsa today: about 12 US babies were given the name Eilidh in 2025, compared with 0 named Ailsa.
| Eilidh | Ailsa | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Sun, light | Elf victory |
| Origin | Scottish | Scottish |
| Gender | Girl | Girl |
| Pronunciation | AY-lee | AYL-sah |
| Syllables | 2 | 2 |
| First appeared | 1999 | 1918 |
| Peak year | 2019 (18) | 2003 (19) |
| In 2025 | 12 | 0 |
| Trend | Rising | Declining |
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Eilidh
Ailsa
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Births by decade
| Decade | Eilidh | Ailsa |
|---|---|---|
| 2020s | 81 | 25 |
| 2010s | 108 | 121 |
| 2000s | 81 | 123 |
| 1990s | 5 | 112 |
| 1980s | 0 | 45 |
| 1970s | 0 | 80 |
| 1960s | 0 | 6 |
| 1920s | 0 | 21 |
| 1910s | 0 | 5 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Eilidh or Ailsa more popular?
Eilidh is more popular than Ailsa today: about 12 US babies were given the name Eilidh in 2025, compared with 0 named Ailsa.
What is the difference between Eilidh and Ailsa?
Eilidh means Sun, light (Scottish origin), while Ailsa means Elf victory (Scottish origin).
Which name is older, Eilidh or Ailsa?
In US records, Eilidh first appears in 1999 and Ailsa in 1918, so Ailsa has the longer recorded history.