AlasdairAlasdair

/AL-as-der/

Scottish GaelicBoy

Alasdair is a Scottish Gaelic boy's name pronounced /AL-as-der/. The classic Scottish form of Alexander, meaning defender of the people.

Meaning of Alasdair

The classic Scottish form of Alexander, meaning defender of the people.

Alasdair is the Scottish Gaelic form of the Greek name Alexandros, composed of the elements 'alexein' meaning to defend and 'aner' meaning man. It entered the Gaelic language via Latin and has been a staple of Scottish nomenclature since the Middle Ages, popularized by Scottish kings.

Origin
Scottish Gaelic
Pronunciation
/AL-as-der/

Cultural background

The name remains a quintessentially Scottish choice, widely used across the United Kingdom and in the Scottish diaspora. While traditional, it is frequently shortened to 'Ally' or 'Al' in informal contexts.

Variations & nicknames

  • Alister
  • Allister
  • Alastair
  • Alisdair
  • Ally
  • Alistair

Famous people named Alasdair

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Alasdair Gray

    Acclaimed Scottish novelist and artist, author of 'Lanark'.

    Literature · 1934–2019

  • Alasdair MacMhaighstir Alasdair

    Renowned Scottish Gaelic poet and Jacobite officer.

    Literature · 1698–1770

  • Alasdair MacIntyre

    Influential Scottish philosopher known for his work in virtue ethics.

    Philosophy · 1929–present

  • Alasdair Fraser

    Master Scottish fiddler and founder of the Valley of the Moon Scottish Fiddling School.

    Music · 1955–present

  • Alasdair McDonnell

    Former leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP).

    Politics · 1949–present

Frequently asked about Alasdair

What does Alasdair mean?
Alasdair is the Scottish Gaelic version of Alexander, meaning 'defender of the people'.
How do you pronounce Alasdair?
It is typically pronounced 'AL-as-ter' or 'AL-as-dair', similar to the English spelling Alistair.
Is Alasdair a boy or girl name?
Alasdair is a masculine name used for boys.
What is the most common spelling of Alasdair?
While Alasdair is the traditional Gaelic spelling, Alistair and Alastair are also very common variations in the UK.

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