MyNameList

    Mairéad

    Also spelled: Margaret, Marguerite, Margarita, Margareta

    Mairéad · Margaret (English) · Marguerite (French) · Margarita (Spanish)

    Pronunciation: mah-RAYD

    ♀ Female
    Greek, Irish Gaelic

    Meaning

    Pearl

    Origin

    Greek

    The Story Behind Mairéad

    Mairéad is the Irish form of Margaret, a name with ancient Greek roots. The original Greek name, Margarites (Μαργαρίτης), meant 'pearl'. The name traveled through Latin as Margarita and then into various European languages. In Ireland, it was adapted into the Gaelic form Mairéad, becoming a very common and beloved name. Its popularity in Ireland is also tied to several saints named Margaret.

    The name's journey into Irish culture reflects the broader historical and linguistic connections between Ireland and continental Europe. While the spelling and pronunciation are distinctly Irish, its core meaning and etymology remain linked to its Greek origins. It has maintained a consistent presence in Ireland for centuries, often seen as a classic and traditional choice.

    Popularity & Trends

    Rarity:
    Uncommon
    Trend:Stable
    Era:Medieval, Contemporary
    Popular in:Ireland

    Popularity Trends

    Is Mairéad Right for Your Baby?

    Mairéad is a Classic, Traditional, Elegant name for girls that suits parents looking for something with character. It may require a brief explanation of pronunciation in some regions.

    Syllables2
    LengthLong
    International UseRegional
    PronunciationModerate

    Cultural Associations

    Biblical / Early Christian
    Celtic
    Irish Heritage

    Regions Where Mairéad Is Used

    Celtic

    Name Vibe

    Classic
    Traditional
    Elegant

    Famous People Named Mairéad

    • Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh (Irish fiddler and singer)
    • Mairéad Farrell (Irish republican hunger striker)
    • Mairéad Corrigan-Maguire (Nobel Peace Prize laureate from Northern Ireland)

    Alternative Spellings & Variants

    • Máiréad
    • Mairead

    Nicknames & Short Forms

    Maire
    Máire

    Mairéad in different fonts

    MairéadDancing Script
    MairéadCaveat
    MairéadSatisfy
    MairéadPacifico
    MairéadGreat Vibes

    Sibling Name Style

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

    Traditional Irish
    Classic

    Related Names

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    Frequently Asked Questions About Mairéad

    What does Mairéad mean?

    Mairéad means "Pearl". It is derived from Greek.

    What is the origin of Mairéad?

    Mairéad originates from Greek, Irish Gaelic. Its cultural origin is Greek.

    Is Mairéad a male or female name?

    Mairéad is a female name.

    How do you pronounce Mairéad?

    Mairéad is pronounced "mah-RAYD".

    What language does Mairéad come from?

    Mairéad comes from Greek, Irish Gaelic.

    Is Mairéad a popular name?

    Mairéad is considered a uncommon name, and its popularity trend is stable.

    What are variants of Mairéad?

    Variants of Mairéad include Margaret, Marguerite, Margarita, Margareta.

    What are nicknames for Mairéad?

    Common nicknames for Mairéad include Maire, Máire.

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