Finlay is a moderately popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #181 in 2024 with 280 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 2007 with 1,343 births ranking #59. Since 1996, the popularity has increased by 259.0%. In 2024, approximately 1 in every 992 boys born was named Finlay. RISING Recent data shows the name is currently rising.
Finlay is a Scottish Gaelic name meaning "fair warrior". It feels traditional, energetic, and very much at home among modern Celtic favourites.
The name has long roots in Scotland and later spread through wider English-speaking use. Its revival reflects the strong modern appetite for authentic Gaelic names.