Gaisla

Gaisla is a feminine given name of Scottish Gaelic origin. The name is derived from the element *gaisc*, meaning “jewel” or “precious stone”, and is thought to have connotations of beauty and value. In Gaelic tradition, names that incorporate elements of nature or precious materials were often chosen to convey desirable qualities or aspirations for the bearer.

The name gained popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries in the Scottish Highlands and among diaspora communities in Canada, the United States, and Australia. It is most frequently recorded in parish registers and census returns from the 19th century, especially in Inverness and Ross-shire. By the mid‑20th century, the use of Gaisla had begun to decline, although it has seen a modest revival among families seeking to preserve Gaelic heritage.

Variant forms of the name include Ghaisla, Galsa, and, in an anglicized context, Gisela. These variants arise from regional dialectal differences and the transliteration of Gaelic phonemes into English spelling. While Gaisla remains relatively uncommon, it is occasionally used in literature and genealogy research focused on Scottish Gaelic naming practices.

Notable individuals bearing the name are scarce, reflecting its limited circulation. However, historical records highlight several women named Gaisla who served as midwives and community leaders in 19th‑century rural Scotland, underscoring the name’s association with nurturing and resilience. The name continues to appear in contemporary cultural works that explore Scottish identity and linguistic heritage.