Finlay

Finlay is both a surname and a given name of Gaelic origin. It derives from the Scottish Gaelic name Fionnlagh, commonly interpreted as meaning “white-haired warrior” or “fair-haired hero.” The form Finlay is one of several Anglicized spellings, with Findlay and Finley being common variants.

As a given name, Finlay has historical roots in Scotland and Ireland and has since spread to many English-speaking countries through migration. It is typically masculine in traditional usage, though naming patterns continue to diversify in contemporary contexts. As a surname, Finlay originated as a patronymic from a person named Finlay and is now found widely across the English-speaking world.

Notable bearers of the name appear in a range of fields, including politics, science, the arts, and sports, reflecting the name’s broad distribution. In fiction and media, Finlay is also used as a character name in various books and programs, contributing to its recognition beyond real-world individuals.

Related names include Finley, Findlay, and the original Gaelic form Fionnlagh. These variants share the same linguistic roots and often the same broad cultural associations with Scotland and Ireland. Finlay remains in use today as both a first name and a surname, valued for its traditional resonance and straightforward pronunciation.