Dierdre

“sorrow, broken-hearted” — Associated with themes of longing and tragedy

Ireland origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#698US 2023

1.5kBirths / yr

→Stable

1.1kAll-time births

📅 Since 194100

What does Dierdre mean and where does it come from?

Dierdre (or Deirdre) is a traditional Irish name from the legend of Deirdre of the Sorrows, a tragic figure in Irish mythology. The name is associated with themes of longing and tragedy, and has been a popular choice in Irish culture. Variations of the name exist, including Deirdre.

Cultural significance

Dierdre has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of sorrow, broken-hearted.

Peak popularity

Reached #1428 in 1961 — currently #698 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Dierdre?

Dierdre works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Dierdre Grace

How popular is Dierdre right now?

Holding steady — currently #698 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1945–2023#698 · Top 0.52%

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#698	1,502	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#703	1,482	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#708	1,452	▲ up 12477 · +20643% births
2005	#13185	7	▲ up 2133 · +40% births
2000	#15318	5	▼ down 1608
1995	#13710	5	▼ down 5687 · -50% births
1990	#8023	10	▼ down 2238 · -17% births
1985	#5785	12	▼ down 951 · -20% births
1980	#4834	15	▼ down 1147 · -17% births
1975	#3687	18	▼ down 1458 · -50% births
1970	#2229	36	▼ down 465 · -14% births
1965	#1764	42	▼ down 51 · -5% births
1960	#1713	44	▲ up 1099 · +159% births
1955	#2812	17	▲ up 581 · +55% births
1950	#3393	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Dierdre

Best Year2023Rank #698

Peak Count1,502

Average Rank#5056

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1945 - 202316 years

The story of Dierdre

Dierdre entered American naming records in 1941 and has been in use for over 83 years. With 1,115 total births recorded, Dierdre remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2337 in 1945 to #698 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Dierdre in 1961:

Mary Lisa Susan Linda Karen

Dierdre by decade

Dierdre peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →

Decade	Births
1940s	85
1950s	163
1960s ★	436
1970s	226
1980s	119
1990s	63
2000s	23

💎With 1,115 total births, Dierdre is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Dierdre?

Common

DieDiieDiyErdre

What names sound and feel like Dierdre?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Dierdre also consider these

French · A French name

American · Diminutive of Deandra;

Cierre

American · to close or

Common questions about the name Dierdre

What does the name Dierdre mean?

Dierdre means "sorrow, broken-hearted" — 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 Dierdre?

Dierdre is currently ranked #698 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 Dierdre?

Dierdre 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 does Dierdre sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Dierdre flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Dierdre ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.

What are good nicknames for Dierdre?

Dierdre 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.