Innes: a unisex name of Celtic origin meaning "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice)".It derives from the Celtic word "*Oino-gustos > *Oinogustos > ÓENGUS".
Innes has maintained its appeal as a both name in modern times while preserving its Celtic roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice)" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Innes
Quick facts about Innes
Origin
Celtic, Pictish
Gender
Unisex
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”
Etymology & Details
Name Root
*Oino-gustos > *Oinogustos > ÓENGUS
How to Pronounce Innes
Innes is pronounced /ˈɪn.ɪs/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Inn-es
Say it like: "INN-ES"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Innes is predominantly used in scottish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
scottish
Name Relationships
Innes is a variant form of Aonghus, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Innes means "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”". The name comes from *Oino-gustos > *Oinogustos > ÓENGUS. This celtic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Innes for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”" as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Innes's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Innes?
Innes has celtic and pictish origins. The name traces back to *Oino-gustos > *Oinogustos > ÓENGUS. The name remains closely tied to scottish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The celtic meaning "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Innes developed as a form of Aonghus, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Innes a boy or girl name?
Innes is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Innes works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In celtic tradition, Innes has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”" carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Innes?
Innes is pronounced "/ˈɪn.ɪs/". This pronunciation follows ga language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Innes is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with celtic names, listening to a native speaker say Innes can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Innes?
Innes is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Innes offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Innes's popularity may vary between celtic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Innes holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Innes?
Innes is a form of Aonghus. Over time, Aonghus developed into several variations, with Innes emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In celtic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Innes might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In scottish, Innes may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Innes commonly used?
Innes is used primarily in scottish naming traditions. Though celtic in origin, Innes found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Scottish Gaelic and Pictish “*oino-gustos > *oinogustos,” composed of two Celtic elements: “*Oino” (one) plus “gustos” (choice). The name means “powerful, superior strength, one vigor, one-choice.” The variant spelling of Angus in Scottish Gaelic and Irish are respectively “Aonghus” and “Aengus.”" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Innes into their naming traditions. A child named Innes will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Innes is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.