Eileen is a feminine given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish Gaelic name "Oidhche", which means "evening". The name Eileen has been used in English-speaking countries since the late 19th century, but it gained popularity in the mid-20th century.
The name Eileen was popularized by Irish immigrants who brought their culture and traditions to other parts of the world. In Ireland, the name is often associated with traditional music and dance, as many Irish musicians and dancers have borne this name.
Eileen has also been used in literature and popular culture throughout history. For example, W.B. Yeats wrote a poem called "The Lake Isle of Innisfree" about an imaginary island where he dreamed of living with his beloved Eileen. Additionally, the character Eileen Aughtry appears in the classic novel "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell.
Overall, Eileen is a beautiful and unique name with Irish origins that has been used for centuries to represent the essence of evening and tranquility. Despite its popularity, it remains a timeless choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their daughter.
Eileen is a classic and timeless name that has been given to babies born in the United States over several decades. Between 1917 and 2021, there were a total of 406 baby girls named Eileen born in the United States.
The popularity of the name Eileen peaked during the 1940s and early 1950s. During this time period, the highest number of births was recorded in 1947 with 16 babies named Eileen. This trend continued into the late 1950s with a high of 12 births recorded in 1957.
However, like many classic names, Eileen's popularity has fluctuated over time. Between the years 1968 and 1971, there were only 7 births each year, indicating that fewer parents were choosing this name during this period.
Despite these fluctuations, Eileen remains a beloved and enduring name choice for baby girls born in the United States. With its timeless appeal and rich history, it's no surprise that so many families have chosen to pass down this classic name from generation to generation.