What does Eilidh mean?
Eilidh is a Scottish Gaelic name linked to Helen, “sun” or “light.”
What does Mhairi mean?
Mhairi is the Scottish Gaelic form of Mary, sharing its debated meanings.
Eilidh vs Mhairi
Which is more popular?
Eilidh is more popular than Mhairi today: about 12 US babies were given the name Eilidh in 2025, compared with 0 named Mhairi.
| Eilidh | Mhairi | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Sun, light | Of debated origin |
| Origin | Scottish | Scottish |
| Gender | Girl | Girl |
| Pronunciation | AY-lee | VAH-ree |
| Syllables | 2 | 2 |
| First appeared | 1999 | 1997 |
| Peak year | 2019 (18) | 1997 (5) |
| In 2025 | 12 | 0 |
| Trend | Rising | Steady |
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Eilidh
Mhairi
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Births by decade
| Decade | Eilidh | Mhairi |
|---|---|---|
| 2020s | 81 | 0 |
| 2010s | 108 | 0 |
| 2000s | 81 | 0 |
| 1990s | 5 | 5 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Eilidh or Mhairi more popular?
Eilidh is more popular than Mhairi today: about 12 US babies were given the name Eilidh in 2025, compared with 0 named Mhairi.
What is the difference between Eilidh and Mhairi?
Eilidh means Sun, light (Scottish origin), while Mhairi means Of debated origin (Scottish origin).
Which name is older, Eilidh or Mhairi?
In US records, Eilidh first appears in 1999 and Mhairi in 1997, so Mhairi has the longer recorded history.