What does Deidre mean and where does it come from?
Deidre is a name of Irish origin, steeped in myth and folklore. The name is often associated with the tragic character Deirdre in the 'Táin Bó Cúailnge' saga, whose story represents deep emotions and sorrow. The name has variations, including Derdriu, and has seen popularity in various English-speak
Cultural significance
Deidre has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Irish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sorrowful.
Peak popularity
Reached #413 in 1963 — currently #815 in the US.
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Related Reading
Irish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Deidre?
Deidre works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Deidre Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Deidre Rose
Floral · soft ending
Deidre Mae
Sweet · timeless
Deidre Claire
French influence · crisp
Deidre Jane
Literary · strong
Deidre Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Deidre right now?
Holding steady — currently #815 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #815 | 1,385 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #820 | 1,365 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #825 | 1,335 | ▲ up 13842 · +22150% births |
| 2015 | #14667 | 6 | ▼ down 2248 · -25% births |
| 2010 | #12419 | 8 | ▼ down 6387 · -60% births |
| 2005 | #6032 | 20 | ▼ down 3047 · -57% births |
| 2000 | #2985 | 47 | ▼ down 1703 · -64% births |
| 1995 | #1282 | 131 | ▼ down 312 · -32% births |
| 1990 | #970 | 193 | ▼ down 401 · -44% births |
| 1985 | #569 | 344 | ▲ up 8 · +7% births |
| 1980 | #577 | 322 | ▲ up 19 · +19% births |
| 1975 | #596 | 271 | ▼ down 159 · -46% births |
| 1970 | #437 | 506 | ▲ up 45 · +30% births |
| 1965 | #482 | 389 | ▲ up 45 · +15% births |
| 1960 | #527 | 339 | — |
The story of Deidre
Deidre entered American naming records in 1933 and has been in use for over 91 years. A total of 14,661 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4809 in 1935 to #815 in 2023. Deidre is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Deidre in 1963:
Deidre by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 33 | |
| 1940s | 573 | |
| 1950s | 1,519 | |
| 1960s ★ | 4,370 | |
| 1970s | 3,118 | |
| 1980s | 3,082 | |
| 1990s | 1,647 | |
| 2000s | 275 | |
| 2010s | 44 | |
What are good nicknames for Deidre?
Famous people named Deidre
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Deidre (Irish revolutionary)
Deidre carried this name during Ireland's struggle for independence, giving it a spirit of courage.
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Deidre (Celtic chieftain)
Deidre bore this name in ancient Ireland, where it connected to the Gaelic oral tradition.
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Deidre (Irish poet or writer)
Deidre used this name in the rich tradition of Irish literature and storytelling.
D(
Deidre (Irish revolutionary)
Deidre carried this name during Ireland's struggle for independence, giving it a spirit of courage.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Deidre?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Deidre also consider these
How is Deidre written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Deidre
What does the name Deidre mean?
Deidre means "Sorrowful" — a name rooted in Irish tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Deidre?
Deidre is currently ranked #815 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Deidre?
Deidre originates from Irish tradition. Irish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Deidre?
Deidre is a two-syllable name pronounced D IY1 D R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Deidre a common or rare name?
Deidre is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.