Alistair is a name of Scottish origin that has been used for centuries in Scotland and other parts of the world. The name is derived from the Scottish Gaelic name Alasdair, which is composed of two elements: "al" meaning "noble" or "champion," and "sithr" meaning "peace." Therefore, the meaning of Alistair can be translated as "noble and peaceful."
The name Alistair has a long history in Scotland. It was first recorded as a given name in the 13th century, when it was borne by several prominent figures in Scottish history. One of the most notable early bearers of the name was Alasdair MacMhaighstir Alasaid, also known as Alexander Stewart, who was the son of Robert II of Scotland and a significant figure during the Wars of Independence.
Over time, the name Alistair has become popular beyond Scotland. It has been used in England, Ireland, and other parts of the English-speaking world, as well as in France and other European countries. Today, it is still considered a distinctive and noble-sounding name that carries with it a rich history and cultural heritage.
In terms of its use today, Alistair continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their sons. It has consistently ranked among the top 500 baby boy names in England and Wales since the 1970s, and it is also popular in other parts of the world.
Overall, the name Alistair is a strong and distinctive choice that combines Scottish heritage with a meaning that signifies nobility and peace. Its long history and prominent bearers throughout the centuries make it a name that carries with it a sense of tradition and prestige.
Based on the statistical data provided, the name Alistair has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States.
The earliest data point available is from 1956, with only 7 births recorded that year. The numbers fluctuated throughout the following decades, with the lowest point being just 6 births in both 1980 and 1982.
However, starting in the mid-1980s, there was a notable rise in the popularity of the name Alistair. From 14 births in 1984, the number increased to 21 births by 1991. This upward trend continued throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s.
The year 2005 marked a significant turning point with 42 births, more than triple the number in 1997 (12 births). Since then, the popularity of Alistair has continued to grow exponentially. By 2023, there were 249 recorded births, a remarkable increase from the previous year's 226 births.
Overall, from 1956 to 2023, the name Alistair has been given to a total of 3,563 babies in the United States. This demonstrates that while it may not have always been one of the most popular names, Alistair has undoubtedly gained traction and become more widely chosen by parents in recent years.
This steady increase in popularity could potentially indicate that the name Alistair is viewed as unique yet classic, appealing to parents who wish to give their child a distinctive name with timeless appeal.