Aoife is a unique and beautiful Irish girl's name with a rich history and fascinating origins. It is pronounced "EE-fa" and is derived from the Old Irish word "Áine" which means "peace, life, beauty". This name was borne by many legendary queens in Irish mythology, including the wife of the high king Cormac Mac Airt.
The name Aoife first appeared in the 10th century as a personal name and gained popularity during the medieval period. It has been used consistently throughout Irish history and is still a popular choice for parents today who wish to give their daughter a strong, meaningful, and distinctive name.
Aoife was also the name of one of the most famous female warriors in Irish mythology, Áine the Fearless, who was known for her bravery and skill in battle. This adds another layer of depth and strength to this captivating name.
Overall, Aoife is a powerful and elegant Irish girl's name that carries with it a wealth of history, meaning, and beauty. It is sure to make a striking impression wherever it is heard.
The name Aoife has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past three decades, with a consistent rise in births from just 6 in 1985 to a peak of 115 in 2022. This trend suggests that the name is becoming more widely accepted and appreciated, with a substantial number of parents choosing it for their daughters even in recent years. However, there was a slight decrease in popularity in 2023, with only 88 births recorded compared to the previous year's high of 115.