All about the name
Irby
Female
« Irby is a rare English given name with uncertain origins. It may derive from the Irish surname O'irbhui, meaning "golden-haired", or be a variant of Old Norse Irving, meaning "peaceful". The name has been used since the early 13th century and was first recorded in England around that time. »
#41767
since 1900
Meaning, origin, history
Irby is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. Its meaning and history are not as widely documented as some other names, but there are a few theories about its origins.
One theory suggests that Irby is an Anglicized form of the Irish surname O'irbhui, which is derived from the Gaelic word "oir" meaning "golden-haired" or "fair". Another theory proposes that Irby could be a variant spelling of the Old Norse name Irving, which means "peaceful".
There are also places named Irby in England, such as Irby in Cheshire and Irby in Lincolnshire, which may have contributed to the popularity of the name. However, it is unclear whether these place names preceded the use of Irby as a given name or if they were named after someone with that surname.
Despite its uncertain origins, Irby has been used as a given name for centuries. It was first recorded in England in the early 13th century, and there are several historical figures who bore the name Irby. For example, Sir Thomas Irby (c.1560-1630) was an English politician and courtier who served as Master of the Revels to King James I.
Today, Irby is still a relatively uncommon given name, but it remains popular among those who appreciate unique and distinctive names with a rich history behind them. While its origins may be uncertain, there is no doubt that Irby is a name that stands out from the crowd.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Irby since 1880
Total births
26
Total since 1880
Peak year
1916
6 births
in 1943
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years