What does Derry mean and where does it come from?
Derry comes from the Irish name Doire, meaning an oak grove. It is a name that is often used in Ireland and can connote strength and stability derived from the oak tree. The name is also used in the context of Derry City in Northern Ireland, which has historical significance. It's a trendy name that
Cultural significance
Derry has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #3591 in 1942 — currently #1512 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Derry?
Derry works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Derry Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Derry Rose
Floral · soft ending
Derry Mae
Sweet · timeless
Derry Claire
French influence · crisp
Derry Jane
Literary · strong
Derry Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Derry right now?
Holding steady — currently #1512 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1512 | 688 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1517 | 668 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1522 | 638 | ▲ up 5719 · +10533% births |
| 1970 | #7241 | 6 | ▼ down 635 · +20% births |
| 1960 | #6606 | 5 | ▼ down 1190 · -17% births |
| 1955 | #5416 | 6 | ▼ down 882 · +20% births |
| 1935 | #4534 | 5 | — |
The story of Derry
Derry entered American naming records in 1932 and has been in use for over 92 years. With 1,678 total births recorded, Derry remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4534 in 1935 to #1512 in 2023. Derry is used for both genders: 8% female and 92% male.
Names that peaked alongside Derry in 1942:
Derry by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 20 | |
| 1920s | 67 | |
| 1930s | 175 | |
| 1940s | 231 | |
| 1950s ★ | 383 | |
| 1960s | 289 | |
| 1970s | 198 | |
| 1980s | 131 | |
| 1990s | 102 | |
| 2000s | 63 | |
| 2010s | 19 | |
💎With 1,678 total births, Derry is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Derry?
What names sound and feel like Derry?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Derry also consider these
How is Derry written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Derry
What does the name Derry mean?
Derry 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 Derry?
Derry is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Derry?
Derry 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.
How do you pronounce the name Derry?
Derry is a two-syllable name pronounced D EH1 R IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Derry a common or rare name?
Derry is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.