Alasdair is a unique and distinctive name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic language, with 'Alas' meaning 'champion' or 'hero', and 'dair' meaning 'powerful'. Therefore, the name Alasdair translates to 'Champion of Power'.
The name has a rich history in Scottish literature and folklore. One of the most famous bearers of the name was Alasdair Mac Mhaighstir Alasdair (also known as Alexander MacDonald), who was a 17th-century Scottish poet and warrior. He is often referred to as the 'Blind Harper' because he lost his sight in battle, but continued to compose poetry and music until his death.
Alasdair has also been used as a given name in Scotland for centuries, with records of its use dating back to the 13th century. It was particularly popular among the Highland clans, where it was often passed down through generations.
Today, Alasdair remains a popular choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child. Its Scottish origins and historic significance continue to make it an appealing option for those looking for a name with a strong connection to Scotland's past. Despite its uniqueness, Alasdair is not too difficult to pronounce or spell, making it a practical choice as well.
In summary, Alasdair is a powerful and distinctive Scottish name that translates to 'Champion of Power'. With its rich history in Scottish literature and folklore, it remains a popular choice for parents seeking a meaningful and unique name for their child.
The name Alasdair has seen varied popularity over the past few decades in the United States. In terms of annual birth statistics, it appears that the name gained traction around the late 1990s and early 2000s, with a notable increase from 10 births in 2004 to 19 births in 2007.
The years between 2008 and 2013 showed fluctuations in popularity, but there was a significant rise again starting from 2014. From then on, the number of births with the name Alasdair consistently increased each year until reaching its peak in 2021 with 37 births.
Overall, since 1989, there have been a total of 467 babies named Alasdair born in the United States. This indicates that while it may not be one of the most common names, Alasdair has nonetheless maintained a steady presence among baby boys' names over time.