Alistair

Meaning of Alistair

It's a Scottish form of Alexander, which means 'defender of mankind'. It suggests someone who is strong and protective.

Alistair has Scottish Gaelic roots — browse every Scottish Gaelic baby name in our catalog.

Popularity of Alistair

After ranking as high as #885 in 2016, Alistair has fallen out of the US top 1,000 as of 2025.

Notable people named Alistair

• Alistair Cook
  Legendary English cricketer
• Alistair Finch
  Award-winning actor
• Alistair MacLean
  Famous thriller novelist
• Alistair Darling
  Former UK Chancellor
• Alistair Golden
  Renowned jazz musician

More Scottish Gaelic names

Questions about the name Alistair

What does the name Alistair mean?

Alistair means it's a scottish form of alexander, which means 'defender of mankind'. it suggests someone who is strong and protective, and it comes from Scottish Gaelic origins.

Is Alistair a boy's or a girl's name?

Alistair is most commonly used as a boy's name in the United States.

How popular is the name Alistair?

Alistair did not appear in the top 1,000 baby names in 2025, which makes it a genuinely uncommon pick.

When was Alistair most popular?

Alistair peaked at #885 in 2016.