Elgin
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Elgin
Elgin, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of English origin.
Meaning of Elgin
Noble
Elgin is a masculine given name of Scottish origin derived from the Gaelic name Ailgen, meaning "noble". It is sometimes used as a surname.
| Meaning | Noble |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Boy |
| Popularity (US) | #995 in 1970 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1900s) |
Background & History of The Name Elgin
Elgin is a name with a fascinating history and multiple origins. This name can be traced back to various places and cultures across the world. Primarily, Elgin is a Scottish name that originated from a place called Elgin in Moray, Scotland. The city of Elgin in Scotland has a rich medieval history and was once a significant ecclesiastical center. In fact, the name Elgin itself is derived from the Old English word "eald," meaning "old," and the Gaelic word "dun," meaning "hill." Hence, Elgin can be interpreted as "old hill."
In addition to its Scottish roots, Elgin also has other origins. It is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Ælfgēn," which translates to "elf joy." This suggests that the name Elgin could have been given to individuals associated with mystical or joyful qualities.
Elgin has not only been used as a given name or surname but has also become the name of several places. Apart from the Scottish city, there are towns, counties, and even streets named Elgin in various parts of the world. For instance, Elgin County in Ontario, Canada, was named after the Scottish city in tribute to the first settlers who originated from there. Elgin Street in Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is also named in honor of Lord Elgin, who served as the Governor General of Canada in the mid-19th century.
In conclusion, the name Elgin has rich origins, with Scottish and English roots. It is a name associated with historical places, surnames, and personal identities. From Scotland to Canada and beyond, Elgin has left its mark on various regions and continues to be a name of significance.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Elgin over the years.
Check Initials
See what initials Elgin would create with your last name.
Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Elgin.
Save This Name
Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.
Create Free Account