Ailsa is a unique and uncommon female given name of Scottish origin. The name is derived from the Gaelic word "Ailig," which means "elf" or "fairy." In Scottish mythology, Ailsa is often associated with the mythical creature known as the Sìthichean, believed to be supernatural beings that could shape-shift into various forms.
The name Ailsa has a rich history in Scotland. It was popularized during the 19th century by Sir Walter Scott's poem "The Lady of the Lake," which features a character named Ailsa Graham. The poem played a significant role in reviving interest in Scottish culture and history, including its naming traditions.
Despite its historical significance, Ailsa remains relatively uncommon today. However, those who bear this name are often drawn to its uniqueness and its connection to Scotland's rich cultural heritage. In addition, the name Ailsa has a certain musicality and grace that makes it appealing to many parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter.
In summary, Ailsa is a rare but captivating female given name of Scottish origin. Derived from the Gaelic word for "elf," Ailsa has historical roots in Scotland's mythology and literature. While it may not be as widely known as other Scottish names, those who choose Ailsa appreciate its uniqueness and connection to their cultural heritage.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Ailsa has seen fluctuations in popularity over the years in the United States. The name first appeared in the records in 1918 with five births that year and again in 1920 with another five births. There was a notable increase in its usage in 1926 with ten births recorded.
After a gap of several decades, the name reemerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s, reaching its peak popularity during this period. Between 1970 and 1980, the number of births with the name Ailsa ranged from six to thirteen, with a significant increase seen between 1977 and 1978.
The name's popularity fluctuated again in the following decades but maintained a steady presence. From the 1990s to the early 2000s, there were typically around ten to nineteen births per year with the name Ailsa. This period also saw some of the highest numbers of births recorded for this name, including nineteen births in both 2003 and 2010.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Ailsa has stabilized, with between five to fifteen births recorded annually from 2005 onwards. The total number of births with the name Ailsa in the United States, based on the provided statistics, is 533. This data suggests that while not extremely common, the name Ailsa has maintained a consistent presence among baby names in the U.S. over time.