General
bonnie
What does bonnie mean?
In the northeast of England, sometimes used to mean chubby or well-fed, especially of a baby.
"He's a bonnie wee bairn, isn't he."
Origin
Scots, probably from French 'bon/bonne' (good) via Old French 'bonté'. Long established in Scottish and northern English speech, as in 'My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean'.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'bonnie' mean in Scottish?
It means pretty, lovely, or beautiful. A 'bonnie lass' is a pretty girl.
Can 'bonnie' describe a place?
Yes — 'bonnie Scotland' or 'a bonnie view' means lovely or attractive scenery.
Does 'bonnie' ever mean chubby?
In northeast England, calling a baby 'bonnie' can mean plump and healthy-looking.
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