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