All about the name
Mairead
Female
« Mairead is a unique and beautiful Irish name derived from Máire, meaning 'sea' or 'star of the sea'. It has been popular in Ireland for centuries and carries historical significance with notable figures like Mairead Ni Chuaileannain, an exceptional poet from the 15th century, and Enya (Máire Brennan), a famous singer-songwriter. »
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Meaning, origin, history
Mairead is a unique and beautiful name of Irish origin. Derived from the Gaelic name Máire, which itself comes from the Latin name Maria, meaning "sea" or "star of the sea." The name Mairead has been popular in Ireland for centuries and was traditionally given to girls born around the feast day of Saint Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ.
The name Mairead has a rich history in Irish culture. It is associated with several notable figures throughout Irish literature and history. One such figure is Mairead Ni Chuaileannain, a renowned poet and scholar from the 15th century who was known for her exceptional skill in composing poetry in Irish Gaelic.
In more recent times, Mairead has been popularized by the famous Irish singer-songwriter Enya, whose real name is Máire Brennan but often goes by Mairead. Her music has brought the name Mairead to international attention and helped to revive its popularity among young parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their daughters.
Today, Mairead remains a popular choice among Irish families, offering a beautiful and distinctive option for girls with an Irish heritage or those simply looking for a name with a strong historical significance. Its meaning, "sea" or "star of the sea," adds a poetic and enchanting touch to this elegant name.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Mairead since 1880
Total births
1,350
Total since 1880
Peak year
2002
59 births
in 2023
37
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+17%
↗
vs previous 5 years