The Valentines baby name trend parents are loving – a Scots favourite tops the list

LOVE is in the air with Valentine’s day just around the corner.

And with minds turning to thoughts of hearts and flowers, parents-to-be are using the romantic season as inspiration for baby names.

Now a study, conducted by social casino PlayFame, has worked out the most popular Valentine themed monikers for both girls and boys.

And one popular choice for Scottish tots tops the list.

Freya is the most popular Valentine’s girls’ name, with 2,500 monthly searches.

This name has deep romantic roots. Named after the Norse goddess of love, beauty and fertility, it’s a perfect fit for babies born around the season of love.

And it’s also really popular in Scotland, featuring in the top 10 for mothers of all ages in the latest stats.

Coming in at number two for girls is Lily.

With its origins in the elegant and symbolic flower, Lily represents purity and devotion. A bouquet of lilies is often gifted as a sign of commitment, making this name a natural favourite for Valentine’s-inspired baby names.

In third place is Layla. Derived from the Arabic word for “night”, Layla is a name steeped in romance.

It is famously linked to the tragic love story of Layla and Majnun, a tale of passion and longing, reinforcing its deep connection to Valentine’s themes.

Juno is in fourth place – a name tied to love and protection. It’s inspired by the Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth.

As the divine protector of relationships, this name exudes warmth and devotion, making it a fitting tribute to Valentine’s Day.

And finally in number five is Mila.

With Slavic origins meaning “gracious” or “dear”, Mila is a name that radiates affection. Its soft and melodic sound has contributed to its rise in popularity among parents looking for a love-themed baby name.

For boys, top of the list is David with 2,350 monthly searches online.

Meaning “beloved” in Hebrew, this timeless name is a fitting choice for a child born near Valentine’s Day.

Rowan – which also works as a girls name – is in second place. Inspired by the rowan tree, which symbolises love, protection, and resilience, its red berries also echo the colour of passion and Valentine’s Day traditions.

In third place is Tristan. This is a name steeped in romantic history, coming from the legendary medieval tale of Tristan and Isolde, a story of forbidden love and devotion.

In fourth place is Rhys. A name off Welsh origin, it means “enthusiasm” or “passion”, making it a perfect name for a baby born in the season of love.

And in fifth place is Leif, which is derived from the Old Norse word for “heir” or “beloved descendant”, and carries a deep connection to love and legacy.

A spokesperson for PlayFame said: “Choosing Valentine’s-related names can be a meaningful and symbolic way for parents to commemorate the beginning of their child’s life at a time of love, kindness, and affection.

“These names not only mark the special occasion of celebrating love but also serve as a lifelong reminder to care for others, and be kind and compassionate.”