Meaning
Defender of the people
Origin
Scottish Gaelic, Greek
Gender
Boy / Male
Pronunciation
AL-is-tair
Name story
What Alistair communicates
Alistair is a boy name of Scottish Gaelic, Greek origin meaning "Defender of the people". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.
It is pronounced AL-is-tair and sits at a popularity score of 30/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.
If Alistair feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Scottish Gaelic, Greek heritage or its core idea of "Defender of the people". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.
Famous People Named Alistair
- AAlistair Cooke
- AAlistair MacLean
Names with Similar Meanings
Names that share similar themes and meanings with Alistair
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Alistair mean?
The name Alistair means "Defender of the people". It is a name of Scottish Gaelic, Greek origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Scottish Gaelic, Greek naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Alistair.
What is the origin of the name Alistair?
Alistair originates from Scottish Gaelic, Greek. Names of Scottish Gaelic, Greek origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Alistair fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Defender of the people" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.
Is Alistair a popular name?
Alistair appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Alistair sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.
What names are similar to Alistair?
Names similar to Alistair include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Alistair but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Scottish Gaelic, Greek heritage or the same idea of "Defender of the people".
How do you pronounce Alistair?
Alistair is pronounced "AL-is-tair". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Alistair is said.
Is Alistair a boy or a girl name?
Alistair is most commonly used as a boy name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Scottish Gaelic, Greek roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.
What does the name Alistair symbolize?
The name Alistair symbolizes "Defender of the people". That theme gives Alistair a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Defender of the people" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.
Is Alistair a good baby name?
Alistair is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Defender of the people", has clear Scottish Gaelic, Greek heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.