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    Deirdre

    Pronunciation: DEER-druh

    ♀ Female
    Old Irish, Gaelic

    Meaning

    Sorrow, broken-hearted, or perhaps 'raging one'

    Origin

    Gaelic

    The Story Behind Deirdre

    Deirdre is a name steeped in Irish mythology, famously belonging to Deirdre of the Sorrows, a tragic heroine of the Ulster Cycle. Her story is one of beauty, prophecy, and ultimately, heartbreak. The name's exact etymology is debated, with some scholars linking it to the Old Irish word 'der' meaning 'daughter' or 'woman,' while others connect it to 'dord' meaning 'din, clamor, or rage,' or 'dair' meaning 'oak.' The association with sorrow comes directly from the legend of Deirdre, whose life was foretold to bring great woe.

    The name has been used in Ireland for centuries, though its popularity has fluctuated. It gained renewed interest in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the Celtic Revival, as writers and artists rediscovered and reinterpreted ancient Irish myths. Today, it remains a distinctly Irish name, recognized globally due to the enduring power of its legendary bearer.

    Popularity & Trends

    Rarity:
    Uncommon
    Trend:Declining
    Peak decade:1960s
    Era:Ancient, Medieval, Contemporary
    Popular in:Ireland

    Popularity Trends

    Is Deirdre Right for Your Baby?

    Deirdre is a Mystical, Elegant, Serious name for girls that suits parents looking for something with character. Most people will pronounce it correctly on the first try.

    Syllables2
    LengthLong
    International UseRegional
    PronunciationEasy

    Cultural Associations

    Celtic Mythology

    Regions Where Deirdre Is Used

    Celtic

    Name Vibe

    Mystical
    Elegant
    Serious

    Famous People Named Deirdre

    • Deirdre of the Sorrows (legendary Irish heroine)
    • Deirdre O'Kane (Irish comedian and actress)
    • Deirdre McCloskey (American economist and historian)
    • Deirdre Lovejoy (American actress)

    Nicknames & Short Forms

    Dee

    Deirdre in different fonts

    DeirdreDancing Script
    DeirdreCaveat
    DeirdreSatisfy
    DeirdrePacifico
    DeirdreGreat Vibes

    Spelling Variants

    These names are alternative spellings or variants of Deirdre:

    Sibling Name Style

    If you like Deirdre, you might also like names with these styles:

    Mythological
    Irish

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    Frequently Asked Questions About Deirdre

    What does Deirdre mean?

    Deirdre means "Sorrow, broken-hearted, or perhaps 'raging one'". It is derived from Gaelic.

    What is the origin of Deirdre?

    Deirdre originates from Old Irish, Gaelic. Its cultural origin is Gaelic.

    Is Deirdre a male or female name?

    Deirdre is a female name.

    How do you pronounce Deirdre?

    Deirdre is pronounced "DEER-druh".

    What language does Deirdre come from?

    Deirdre comes from Old Irish, Gaelic.

    Is Deirdre a popular name?

    Deirdre is considered a uncommon name, and its popularity trend is declining.

    What are nicknames for Deirdre?

    Common nicknames for Deirdre include Dee.

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