What does Deirdra mean and where does it come from?
Deirdra is a name from Irish mythology, famously associated with 'Deirdre of the Sorrows', a tragic heroine in the 'Ulster Cycle'. The name is thought to have been first used in the oral tradition before being documented in the 8th century. Deirdra is commonly used in Ireland and has variations in s
Cultural significance
Deirdra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #1513 in 1961 — currently #1820 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Deirdra?
Deirdra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Deirdra Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Deirdra Rose
Floral · soft ending
Deirdra Mae
Sweet · timeless
Deirdra Claire
French influence · crisp
Deirdra Jane
Literary · strong
Deirdra Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Deirdra right now?
Holding steady — currently #1820 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1820 | 380 | ▲ up 5 · +6% births |
| 2022 | #1825 | 360 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2021 | #1830 | 330 | ▲ up 12916 · +5400% births |
| 2005 | #14746 | 6 | ▼ down 2754 · -14% births |
| 2000 | #11992 | 7 | ▼ down 1250 |
| 1995 | #10742 | 7 | ▼ down 5828 · -63% births |
| 1990 | #4914 | 19 | ▼ down 723 |
| 1985 | #4191 | 19 | ▼ down 411 · -10% births |
| 1980 | #3780 | 21 | ▼ down 772 · -12% births |
| 1975 | #3008 | 24 | ▼ down 511 · -20% births |
| 1970 | #2497 | 30 | ▼ down 476 · -12% births |
| 1965 | #2021 | 34 | ▼ down 351 · -26% births |
| 1960 | #1670 | 46 | ▲ up 2324 · +360% births |
| 1955 | #3994 | 10 | ▲ up 7 · +43% births |
| 1945 | #4001 | 7 | — |
The story of Deirdra
Deirdra entered American naming records in 1944 and has been in use for over 80 years. With 1,172 total births recorded, Deirdra remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4001 in 1945 to #1820 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Deirdra in 1961:
Deirdra by decade
Deirdra peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 40 | |
| 1950s | 60 | |
| 1960s ★ | 432 | |
| 1970s | 285 | |
| 1980s | 221 | |
| 1990s | 105 | |
| 2000s | 29 | |
💎With 1,172 total births, Deirdra is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Deirdra?
What names sound and feel like Deirdra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Deirdra also consider these
Common questions about the name Deirdra
What does the name Deirdra mean?
Deirdra means "Irish" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Deirdra?
Deirdra is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Deirdra?
Deirdra originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Deirdra a common or rare name?
Deirdra is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Deirdra?
Deirdra naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.