Adair

[boysnamesaretricky]

Any thoughts on this unusual Scottish form of Edgar? For a boy.

I'm scottish, only ever heard it as a surname.

I think of the actress Adair Tishler.

It definitely is more common as a surname. But I think Scottish names are often both, e.g. Cameron, Douglas, Graham, Fraser, Scott so that doesn't worry me too much. I wouldn't usually consider a "surname" name e.g. Jackson

traditionally in Scotland boys were often given their mother’s maiden name as a first name, which explains why surnames as first names are relatively common.

I’ve never come across anyone with Adair as a first name and would think it was a family surname.

Why not Alasdair?

We have an Alasdair in the family and it has quite a different sound, I think.
I don't think it matters too much though whether it's a family name or not now, as that tradition isn't so much alive any more.

I think one thing to remember about associations is that will only happen the first time people hear it.
Then they will.associate it with your wee boy

I also thought of Red Adair - must be a generation thing

I really like it. There are lots of brilliant traditional Scottish boys’ names which are due a comeback!

I came onto this thread to say I didn't like it but actually I think it's rather nice. I think possibly because I am now imagining it in a Scottish accent.

@peperethecat 😃

@IKEA888 makes a very good point. It's a lovely underused name @boysnamesaretricky

I know two Adairs in the US. Both are women. Their names were taken from family surnames. I like it.